Rayver Cruz: A Multifaceted Journey in Entertainment and Family Legacy

 Raymond Oliver Cruz Ilustre, born on July 20, 1989, is widely recognized by his screen name Rayver Cruz. A versatile Filipino talent, he is an actor, dancer, singer, host, and model. As an exclusive actor of GMA Network, he shares familial ties with the renowned Cruz family, prominent in the Philippine entertainment industry. Rayver is the younger brother of actor and dancer Rodjun Cruz and has another older brother named Omar Cruz-Ilustre. Sadly, their father, Rodolfo L. Ilustre, passed away in 2009 from kidney failure.

Personal life

Rayver Cruz's educational journey took him through Saint Mark's Institute in Las Piñas, where he completed Grade 6. In 2010, he graduated with a B.S. degree in Business Administration Management from St. Francis of Assisi College.

Belonging to the extended Cruz family, Rayver is a cousin to Sheryl Cruz, Sunshine Cruz, Geneva Cruz, and Donna Cruz.

Career

In terms of his career, Cruz began as a host alongside his brother Rodjun in the children's magazine show "5 and Up" on ABC (now TV5). He made the transition to GMA Network in 1994, starting as a child actor in the comedy show "Kiss Muna." Later, in 2002, he moved to ABS-CBN and became part of their contract talents, eventually joining Star Magic.

His first lead role came in the 2005 primetime TV series "Spirits" as Red, alongside actress Maja Salvador. He further showcased his acting prowess as Mythos in the 2007 primetime show "Rounin."

On June 14, 2018, Cruz left Star Magic but continued working on his final ABS-CBN project, "Bagani." After 18 years, he returned to his home network, GMA Network, signing a contract on September 6, 2018. Beyond acting and dancing, Cruz also ventured into singing and hosting, hosting GMA programs such as the defunct variety show "Studio 7" and the singing competition "The Clash" alongside Julie Anne San Jose.

Currently, Rayver Cruz is a part of the variety show "All-Out Sundays" on GMA Network.