From drama and comedy to theater and music, Elijah Canlas is booked and busier than ever before

Award-winning actor, rapper-songwriter, and Cornerstone artist, Elijah Canlas, continues to showcase his versatility as a young multi-hyphenate star by continuously taking on multiple critically-acclaimed and highly-anticipated projects and roles in film while hitting career milestones left and right.

Most recently, Elijah stars in the action-comedy film “HB2Me” (produced by Mavx Productions and directed by Veronica Velasco) alongside John Arcilla. Also in the cast are Carmi Martin, Dindo Arroyo, Alexa Miro, Criza Taa, Archie Alemania, Matt Lozano, and fellow Cornerstone artist JM Salvado. “HB2Me” revolves around a father-and-son duo wherein the father (played by John Arcilla) plays a prank on his son (played by Elijah) every year on his birthday. Things descend into chaos and absurdity when the son decides to turn the tables and be the prankster instead. “HB2Me” first premiered on August 10 at SM North EDSA and will be available to watch in cinemas nationwide starting August 19.

Elijah was recently in Finland to shoot an upcoming film directed by Erwin Blanco, also for Mavx Productions. He will co-star alongside Elisse Joson, Michael De Mesa, Shaira Diaz, EA Guzman and fellow Cornerstone artists Empoy Marquez and Benjie Paras. The project was recognized as the first Filipino film to be filmed in Finland.

Elijah also recently wrapped up taping for an upcoming film with acclaimed director, Brillante Mendoza. While very few details for the film have been publicly revealed, his physical transformation for the film captured the attention and excitement of the actor’s fans and moviegoers alike, creating anticipation for the auteur’s latest project.

Elijah has an upcoming project with director Kip Oebanda and Regal Films where he will be co-starring with JM Ibarra. In a social media post, Kip shared the excitement of finally getting to work with Elijah after so many years of talks.

On September 16, “Ejdop” – in which Elijah plays the titular role – will finally be screened in cinemas after more than five years in the making. The film portrays the life of Edgar “Edjop” Jopson – a prominent Ateneo student activist and leader during the Martial Law era of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. The film is directed by Katski Flores and co-stars Jodi Sta. Maria, Kakie Pangilinan, Cedrick Juan, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Gab Pangilinan, and Nour Hooshmand.

From October 2 to 25, Elijah will reprise his role as Lancelot for the rerun of the stage adaptation of Jun Lana’s critically-acclaimed psychological thriller “About Us But Not About Us.” The play will be directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio. He will star alongside Romnick Sarmenta, Epy Quizon, Andoy Rana, Tuxqs Rutaquio, and fellow Cornerstone artist Kobie Brown (who will also play the role of Lancelot). The play will be staged at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati.

Also in film, Elijah also recently starred in the comedy film “Drags To Riches” alongside Christian Bables and Inigo Pascual. The film – produced by Cornerstone Studios and directed by Victor Villanueva – had its theatrical run back in June during Pride Month. Best known for his dramatic chops, comedy films like “Drags To Riches” and “HB2Me” are examples of Elijah’s willingness to push his acting range even further.

As a celebrity, Elijah recently became one of the newest brand ambassadors of Penshoppe as part of the Filipino clothing giant’s Club PENSHOPPE: All Access campaign. He is joined by fellow stars Maki and Belle Mariano.

Earlier this year, Elijah released his debut 10-track “South II” album under Island Records Philippines. Prior to the album drop, Elijah started off his music career with the release of a few singles, with 2023’s “kilala kita” being the most notable by far.

Having just turned 26 this month while already having a stacked body of work, there is no doubt that Elijah’s career will continue to be a show you wouldn’t wanna miss.