What’s hot and happening in Colombo? The only answer could possibly be that Sinhala cinema’s one and only sex symbol Sumana Gomez is in town after 13 long years accompanied by her newly wed hubby Greg.

In a film career spanning more than two decades she made a name for herself in bold roles especially in the second half of her film-line up that started with Ege Wairaya 2, 3 and 4, Ragaye Unusuma, Akkai Nangiy, Unusum Rathriya, Thahanam Gaha, Kama Sutra and others.

She looks cheerful and full of energy as she did 13 years ago. She has no reservations about being called the sex symbol of Sinhala cinema.

"What's wrong in being a sex symbol? I think the audience likes me as I have the personality that's required to be a sex symbol. I take it as a compliment when people label me a sex symbol,” she told Impulse.

“I am here on a three week vacation to visit my mother I had not seen in 13 years. I am here thanks to Greg whom I married in January this year. He has been the biggest strength and influence in my life. I acted in a couple of television commercials in New York but my busy job schedules prevented me from accepting any further assignments. 

 

 

I regularly meet Dilani Abeywardana who lives close to my residence. Besides her, I met Anoja Weerasinghe,  Sunil T. Fernando, Sanath and Malkanthi Nandasiri during their visits to the US.

“I love my country and my culture. I was shocked when people made me out even at the airport when I was returning to my country after 13 years. I am delighted that the people still love me and I must say that I will continue to respect and love my fans forever,” she said.

 

Do you regret any films you acted in?

“Not at all. I respect all the films I contributed. All those films were box office hits.”

Greg said he saw some good qualities in Sumana and what impressed him most was Sumana’s generosity and sensitiveness.

“We share similar qualities and that’s why we vibe so well. She is ‘mage pana, mage es deka, mage wasthuwa,” said Greg reminding that he was born on May 24 and Sumana on May 23.

“I will consider accepting a suitable role in films or tele dramas if I am offered one. I am here on a brief vacation with Greg, especially to see my family. Even Greg’s family – his father Anthony Tortoriello, mother Kristen, Sister Bridget, aunty Loraine and Phil – have been so kind and considerate towards us. In Sri Lanka I am living with my brother Sena Gomez’s family in Ratmalana. I am grateful to all those who got in touch with me during this brief visit, especially the media and Shamal Atapattu.  

 

Pix by Pradeep Dilrukshana