Iza Calzado: podcast appearances and interviews

Maria Izadora Ussher Calzado, born on August 12, 1982, is a Filipino actress recognized for her performances in both blockbuster and independent films. She is known for her work in genres such as drama, psychological thrillers, and horror. Throughout her career, Calzado has received numerous awards and accolades including an Osaka Asian Film Festival Award, an Asian Television Award, a Gawad Urian, a Luna Award, and three Metro Manila Film Festival Awards. She has also been nominated for five FAMAS Awards. Her films have contributed to box office earnings of approximately ₱1.96 billion, establishing her as one of the top-grossing Filipino stars of the century. Calzado is the daughter of choreographer and actor Lito Calzado and started her involvement in film as a child actress, with early roles in movies such as Lino Brocka's Kung Tapos Na Ang Kailanman. After a period away from show business, she returned in the early 2000s with appearances in commercials and supporting roles, including the soap opera Kung Mawawala Ka. Her first starring role came in the romantic drama Te Amo, Maging Sino Ka Man in 2004. She gained further recognition with roles in films like Milan, Sabel, and Sigaw, winning the Gawad Urian for Best Supporting Actress for Sigaw. Her breakthrough came with her lead role in the fantasy series Encantadia in 2005. Subsequent successful films and television series, along with critically acclaimed performances in projects such as Dukot, Mga Mumunting Lihim, and Culion, have solidified her reputation as a leading actress in the Philippines. Calzado has also served as a juror at international film festivals, including the Hanoi International Film Festival and the Cinemanila International Film Festival.