Interview by Tinna S. Bonifacio
When she upped and left Star Magic a few years ago, people thought they’d never see her on ABS-CBN again. But once a kapamilya, always a kapamilya—and so Heart Evangelista is back on ABS-CBN, this time via a role as Cassie, ex-girlfriend of Terrence (Jericho Rosales) in Pangarap na Bituin.
This is Heart’s first time to act opposite her real-life boyfriend after the action series Panday, where they first met and fell in love. Heart played Eden , the lady love of Tristan ( Jericho ). Prior to this, her first appearance on ABS-CBN was in another primetime drama, Hiram na Mukha.
Discovered when she was only 14 years old, the bubbly and multi-talented Heart is an actress, TV host, onetime singer (she released an album of pop songs), MYX VJ and commercial endorser. She is currently being managed by Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano of Manila Genesis Entertainment and Management (which also handles the career of Angeli’s husband Gary, as well as a handful of other stars).
In this exclusive interview, Heart talks excitedly about her new assignment, as well as her career plans and lessons she’s learned.
This the first time you're acting opposite Echo again after Panday. How does it feel? Is it easy or difficult to act opposite someone you're in a relationship with?
Not at all! I find it funny though sometimes because I forget that we're actors.
How did you get offered this role in Pangarap na Bituin?
It was presented to me. And I immediately liked the role because it's beautiful.
Are there plans for you to do more stuff for ABS after this?
We'll see...things are being fixed right now. I'd love to, but at the end of it all, though, I'll go wherever my work takes me.
If people asked you how you became successful, what would you say was the reason? Was it the people who helped you, was it being in the right place at the right time, or what?
I guess everything was meant to happen.
What is the best thing about your career?
At a young age, I got to go to different places. I have already traveled a lot!
What’s the best career advice you've been given?
That nothing in showbiz is permanent. One tends to forget that sometimes.
Who have been your career role models? Who are the people who've inspired you and in what specific ways?
Hollywood actors—they’re the epitome of achievements!
Who are the people who've been instrumental in your success?
My parents and God and people who believe in me.
How important would you say is a good manager to the success of an artist? What are the qualities of a good manager?
Having a good manager is very important. A good manager is someone who respects the artist's personal life.
What are your career plans five or 10 yrs down the road?
I'd like to have a business of my own. In 10 years’ time? I'm sure I'll be married by then but I'd like to still be hosting, like maybe have my own talk show.
How do you deal with career disappointments, like when a role you really wanted goes to someone else, or when a show or movie you did doesn’t rate, or fails at the box office? How do you bounce back?
You just have to be realistic about it. And realize that nothing is permanent here in showbiz and that you must have a fall back just in case.
Is there something that you still dream of accomplishing?
I'd like to venture into a business that has something to do with dogs. I feel that Filipinos are starting to love animals and so I want to come up with something that has something to do with dogs.
Lastly, what advice would you give to young people who want to follow your footsteps into show business?Just enjoy it! Reach for the stars! You will get there but always love yourself first! Don't stop dreaming! Work hard and be a pro! Pray for the best!
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