After a short one-year stint, model-actor Zanjoe Marudo gives up on “Banana Split.”

In justifying his decision, the 28-year-old insinuated that he wanted to further branch out into other aspects of his chosen profession.

“Marami akong gustong gawin e. Gusto kong mag-drama, gusto kong mag-comedy, gusto kong mag-action. Ayoko ‘yong nakatali sa isang character o genre,” said he.

To fortify his intent, Marudo signed up to do the TV adaptation of Martha Cecilia's pocketbook series titled “Kristine,” where he will be paired with Cristine Reyes.

The move he said, will allow him to deepen his capacity as an actor.

"Gusto kong makuha 'yong respeto ng ibang tao, ng ibang artista, ng mga katrabaho ko,” said he.
Marudo’s dedication is anchored on his earnest desire to uplift his family.

“Kaya lang naman ako nagta-trabaho dahil kailangan ng pamilya ko. Hindi naman sila humihingi pero nararamdaman ko na kailangan ako. Marami pa rin akong gustong matutunan, gawin. Marami pa akong pangarap,” he said.

The former “Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition” housemate taped his last episode for “Banana Split” on July 27.

Prior to “Kristine,” Zanjoe played leading man on “Dyosa” (2008), “Varga” (2008), and “The Wedding” (2009). He recently appeared in the five-episode suspense movie “Cinco.”

What people remember more about Marudo, however, is his recent split with actress-host Mariel Rodriguez, who, quite seemingly, has jumped into the arms of action star Robin Padilla.