How Rhian Ramos savored the sweet taste of her first showbiz paycheck
Kapuso actress Rhian Ramos reminisced about her early days in show business, recalling the excitement of receiving her first paycheck two decades ago.
"There were two purchases that I remember. With my first paycheck from the fast food commercial, I bought a drum set immediately. And then from my first paycheck from Captain Barbel, I bought a jacket from Armani Exchange that I still have. It still fits me. I still wear it," said Rhian when asked about his first paycheck from showbiz during the renewal of her contract with GMA Network recently.
Now 34, Rhian fondly recalled the moment she first stepped onto the grounds of the Kapuso Network. There was a mix of excitement and ambition.
"I auditioned for Captain Barbel. I remember the waiting room on the 7th floor and meeting Camille Prats in the same room. I remember trying super hard to remember my lines, and I couldn't because it was in Tagalog. But I understand the context," she said.
After two decades navigating the vibrant and often tumultuous world of showbiz, Rhian has come to realize that the roles she embodies in films and television series have evolved into increasingly formidable challenges.
Each character she portrays demands a deeper emotional connection and a more nuanced performance, pushing the boundaries of her talent and creativity.
"It's been 20 years, but lately, the characters I'm getting are becoming more challenging. It's a testament to the trust the network gives me each time. Since it's just starting, there's so much more that we will do together for many years," Rhian said.
If given the opportunity, Rhian expressed her desire to collaborate once more with the talented actor Jason Abalos, whose captivating performances always leave a lasting impression.
"I would love to work with Jason Abalos again. When I had the opportunity to work with him in T.O.T.G.A., there was an unexpected and natural exchange between us. When you are in a scene, it's like a game to me. That's how I feel about it. It's like you're playing. It was natural," she said.
After spending several years immersed in the industry, Rhian eagerly offered insights gleaned from her journey, sharing the invaluable lessons she had learned along the way.
"One of my most important learnings in the industry is the importance of staying humble and grounded, holding on to your family and friends who truly love you, and holding on to your faith.
"I have a tattoo on the hip, which is a triangle, which I learned from car racing. It's a spoiler. Its purpose is that when the car moves forward, the air hits it and it keeps the car grounded. It's a reminder that as I move forward, I have to stay grounded," the actress said.
Rhian expressed her deep loyalty to being a Kapuso. She passionately shared the reasons behind her unwavering commitment to the network, highlighting the heartfelt connections and captivating stories that resonate with viewers.
"You know, I was given the opportunity at such a young age. I didn't know it was work, and I didn't know what acting was. I couldn't even speak the language. And they changed my life. I didn't have any artistic goals in the beginning. I just want to earn a living and have a business.
"It's different in what excites me now. I don't need to look at my paychecks. That 'why' was my whole life before. Now my 'why' is I want the Philippine free TV to be at the same level as what people expect from cinemas. When people turn on the TV, they are not expecting it. I want them to feel excited. You can watch art on TV," an emotional Rhian added.