Season 1 • Episode 165
LatestCaptain Barbell is a superhero drama television series based on a character of the same name created by Mars Ravelo. It was aired on Philippine television by GMA Network during weeknights on its primetime block. The series premiered on May 29, 2006, and last aired on January 12, 2007. It also aired worldwide, with a three-week delay on GMA Pinoy TV. Richard Gutierrez plays the superhero, Captain Barbell and his alter ego, Teng. His archnemesis Viel Villian, is played by Richard Gomez. Year 2011, show returned to Philippine TV as the sequel of the 2006 series. See Captain Barbell 2011
Practical Effects
That silver bodysuit and barbell prop—zero chill, maximum camp.
Acting
Richard Gomez devouring scenery as villain with that smirk.
Production
GMA's ambitious primetime superhero gamble before Marvel dominated.
Creator
Mars Ravelo
Richard Gutierrez
Captain Barbell / Arell / Potenciano "Teng" Magtanggol
Richard Gomez
Viel Villan / General V
Patrick Garcia
Levi Villan / Super Levi
Camille Prats
Marikit "Kit" Salvacion
Rhian Ramos
Leah Lazaro
JC de Vera
Boris / Little B
Ricky Davao
Cesar Magtanggol
Jackie Lou Blanco
Sandra Magtanggol
Snooky Serna
Mrs. B
Rufa Mae Quinto
Marissa Sanchez as Patti / Aero / Aerobika
Pinky Amador
Myra Lazaro
Wendell Ramos
Ruben / Black Out
Elizabeth Oropesa
Aurora Salvacion / Lady Amorseko
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Mars Ravelo created Captain Barbell in 1963 as a working-class answer to American superheroes—literally a guy who lifts his way out of poverty.
Richard Gutierrez played both hero and alter-ego in scenes using body doubles and early split-screen tech that aged like milk in tropical heat.
PH
