Filipino-Canadian comedian Nurse John appears with his wife Bianca at the Los Angeles premiere of DreamWorks’ ‘Forgotten Island’.
Nurse John gave fans a glimpse of his life off-camera as he appeared with his wife, Bianca, at the Los Angeles premiere of Forgotten Island, where the Filipino-Canadian comedian has a cameo in the animated film.
In a social media post on Sunday (September 27), John Dela Cruz, better known as Nurse John, shared a photo with his wife from the premiere and wrote: “With my beautiful wife and date for the Forgotten Island Movie LA premiere!”
He also celebrated his role in the film, which draws heavily on Filipino mythology and culture. “Had a chance to do a cameo in this movie that is all about friendship and most importantly the Filipino mythology and culture!” he wrote. “Finally, a movie in Hollywood that showcase my culture, our story, history, and our folklore! If you get a chance go watch it in a cinema near you!”
John’s appearance with Bianca prompted plenty of reactions from followers, with some surprised to see the comedian publicly share a glimpse of his married life.
One commenter, Samantha King, wrote: “This is how I learned you’re straight,” reflecting the surprise among some followers who are more familiar with John’s comedic online persona than his private life.
In Forgotten Island, John voices a tito (uncle), a character seen alongside children performing the traditional Filipino dance called Tinikling. In one scene, the character tells Jo, “Go eat, there’s lechon!”
The cameo comes as John reaches another major milestone in his entertainment career. Forbes ranked him No. 28 on its 2026 Top Creators list, estimating his earnings at $7.2 million and his combined social media following at 19.2 million.
Forbes also reported that his Short-Staffed Tour has sold more than 250,000 tickets since its launch in 2024, including sold-out shows in Australia and New Zealand. His 2026 European extension, covering 22 shows, also sold out.
For John, Forgotten Island offers another way to bring Filipino culture to a global audience.
The DreamWorks Animation film follows best friends Jo, voiced by H.E.R., and Raissa, voiced by Liza Soberano, who are transported to the mythical island of Nakali. The story draws on Philippine folklore, including creatures such as the Manananggal, while also weaving in familiar Filipino elements such as tinikling and lechon.
The voice cast includes Lea Salonga as the Manananggal, as well as Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon and Jo Koy. Filipino artists BINI and SB19 are also featured on the soundtrack. The film opened in US cinemas on September 25 and is scheduled to open in UAE on November 12, Reel Cinemas confirmed to Expat Media. It was originally scheduled to screen in the UAE on October 15. PIA/Expat Media
ALSO READ: Expat Media reviews Forgotten Island
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