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Metro x Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition - Kira Balinger

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Kapamilya star Kira Balinger has long been carving a name for herself in the Philippine entertainment industry. From playing dramatic roles in teleseryes to making waves in film, she’s known for her grounded presence and sincere portrayals. But it was her unexpected turn as a Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition housemate that revealed a more personal and relatable side of the actress, one that fans quickly embraced.Before stepping into Bahay ni Kuya, Kira was already gaining momentum in showbiz. She played Luna in Darna (2022), portrayed the young Victoria in the revenge drama Nag-Aapoy na Damdamin (2023), and starred as Erika in G, a coming-of-age film where she played a school valedictorian with big dreams. In 2024, she led two major film projects: Maple Leaf Dreams, a romance-drama about OFWs in Toronto, where she played the lead role of Molly, and Chances Are, You and I, where she portrayed the emotionally layered character of Gabi Sinag. These milestones solidified her versatility as an actress, but Kira felt there was still more she wanted people to see.“I wanted people to know who I am, not just the characters I play,” she told Metro.Style. And with PBB, she was able to achieve her goal through a platform that allowed her to show her authentic self. Known in the house for her quiet strength, thoughtful presence, and poetic words, Kira earned the moniker of a “walking poetry” housemate, especially for the way she advised fellow housemate Will Ashley and others.<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1756025689590metro exclusive pbb celeb collab kira balinger embed 1.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Kira Balinger, as photographed by Dix Perez</div><div> </div>Despite her composed image, Kira revealed that entering the house was one of the most emotionally intense experiences of her life. “Before PBB, I was very introverted. I barely hung out with people my age,” she shared. Inside, she had to adjust quickly to a new social dynamic, sharing space with lively, energetic peers. “Culture shock talaga,” she admitted. “The hardest part was trying to fit in and open up.” Both task-related challenges and navigating group dynamics tested her patience and pushed her beyond her comfort zone.Kira candidly admitted that teamwork was one of her biggest challenges. But she pushed herself, especially during difficult tasks like “Rampa-Ampar,” where housemates had to walk backwards on a runway without looking, and the intense “Twin Towers of Love,” where they had to hold a fragile heart-shaped cup tower over a pool. The pain in her hands from holding the stack for an unknown amount of time was immense, but they succeeded. “It was worth it,” she said with a smile.She also found family in the house. One of her most meaningful bonds was with Josh Ford. Their duo, affectionately called “KISH,” became a fan-favorite. “Grabe ‘yung buhay ng taong ‘yun, pang-MMK [Maalaala Mo Kaya],” Kira said, describing how Josh&#x27;s resilience in the face of hardship inspired her. “And yet he remains so kind and positive.” Their connection, she added, felt destined: “We were the first duo formed, and the last duo standing. I love KISH!”Kira also grew close to housemates Josh, AC Bonifacio, AZ Martinez, and Charlie Fleming, forming the fan-fave “Book Club.” “During the early days, we felt left out, so we’d read quietly and be there for each other,” she recalled. She especially grew fond of AZ, calling her “thoughtful and sweet,” particularly during their final hours together when AZ brought out the last of their donuts just to make everyone feel more at home. While she and fellow housemate Xyriel Manabat didn’t get to bond much inside the house, their connection deepened after PBB. “Xyriel and I got much closer outside,” she shared.<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1756025768550metro exclusive pbb celeb collab kira balinger embed 2.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><div> </div><div style="text-align:center"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1756037821512kish pbb celeb collab.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>KiSh: Kira Balinger and Josh Ford</div><div> </div>A self-proclaimed neat freak, Kira also named herself the most organized housemate. And when it came to food, she gave props to PBB&#x27;s ”Mowm” Klarisse de Guzman for being the only person who ever got her to enjoy monggo. But her most exciting moment came when Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee entered the house. “As someone who loves pageants, it felt like a dream to spend days with a beauty queen,” she gushed.Throughout her stay, Kira made surprising discoveries about herself. “I didn’t realize how clingy I could be,” she laughed. “I love hugging my friends and playing with their hair, something I didn’t do much outside because I rarely hung out.” Her experience inside PBB helped her mature, improve her communication skills, and learn how to work with others and run a household.As for what’s next? “You’ll see a bolder, fiercer Kira,” she promised. While she’s eager to return to acting, she also hopes fans will stick around to see more of her personal evolution in and out of Bahay ni Kuya.<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1756025797089metro exclusive pbb celeb collab kira balinger embed 3.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><div> </div>Photography by Dix PerezMetro head: Christina LopezSittings editors: Geolette Esguerra, Kate Paras-Santiago, Randz Manucom, and Grace Libero-CruzCreative director: Chookie CruzStylist: Edlene Cabral, assisted by Bullet ReyesMakeup artist and hairstylist: Remcy Cardona and Diana May NalogFashion associate: Carla BuyoEditorial assistants: Iya Baring and Krystel MatiasInterviewer: Grace DiezVideo producers: Giselle Interior and Tricia MatiasVideographer: NicePrint PhotoArt director: Alfred AmadoShoot assistants: Danni Lagdameo, Mariana Xerez-Burgos, Sophia Ancheta, and Katrice CuasonSpecial thanks to Pinoy Big Brother, Marcus Vinuya, Patch Bungubung, Charina Fernandez, Pia Laurel, Thess Gubi, and Star Magic

Kira Balinger's unexpected turn as a "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition" housemate revealed a more personal and relatable side of the actress, one that fans quickly embraced.

Kira Balinger's unexpected turn as a "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition" housemate revealed a more personal and relatable side of the actress, one that fans quickly embraced.

Metro Exclusive: Kira Balinger on What She Learned and Discovered About Herself in 'PBB'

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Metro Exclusive: Kira Balinger on What She Learned and Discovered About Herself in 'PBB'

Sophia Ancheta

Published August 27, 2025 12:25 PM PHT

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Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition

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