After doing modelling stints , Richards auditioned for an acting role on the GMA Network 's afternoon soap , '' Alakdana '' . He passed the audition and played the role of Joma . In '' Alakdana , '' he was paired with the lead actress Louise delos Reyes . When he became an actor , he used the stage name Alden Richards . In 2011 , he was included in the teenage series , '' Tween Hearts '' and also starred in its film adaptation '' Tween Hearts : Class of 2012 '' . He also performed on GMA Network 's Sunday variety shows '' Party Pilipinas '' and '' Sunday All Stars '' . He also appeared in the comedy-horror show '' Spooky Nights '' . Richards was praised with his performance as a psychopath in the film '' The Road '' . By the end of 2011 , he replaced Aljur Abrenica 's role as Gobi in '' Ang Panday 2 , '' which is an entry at the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival . Abrenica was pulled out of the film due to conflict of schedules and Richards re-shoots scenes made by Abrenica . Richards was also praised by some entertainment writers for his performances , predicting that he would be the next big star of GMA Network
2011 Metro Manila Film Festival
2011 Metro Manila Film Festival
Alden Richards