Richard Yap stays grounded amid pressures of fame

CEBUANO actor Richard Yap said that he doesn't let fame get into his head as he thanked television viewers for their continued support of the popular morning series "Be Careful With My Heart."

Although he now enjoys the same level of popularity as Piolo Pascual, John Lloyd Cruz and Gerald Anderson as being a "heartthrob" and almost have the same fan base similar to the younger stars, Richard said he is still the same guy who started in commercials and was fortunate enough to be part of a bigger series.

"To me those are just titles, they don't really affect me. I try to do my best on what's required from me on this show. I don't let it get to me because those things disappear," he said in a recent interview.

Richard got his biggest break on television after playing the role of Papa Chen in "My Binondo Girl" and now as Sir Chief in the hit morning series, which also topbills Jodi Sta. Maria.

Richard said that what keeps him grounded is his family, particularly his wife, whom he spends his free time with.

Richard said that his TV series was well received by many because the characters have always been honest and true on and off camera.

He said the audience is more intelligent now and they understand that he has his own life outside showbiz, just like Jodi.

"I think the viewers now are very matured. They know what's real and reel on tv. I think they appreciated that we've been honest from the start that I'm married. The sincerity and honesty really draw them to the show," Richard said.

"It's the product itself. Ang product naman namin ay yung story and how we portrayed the roles. It's full of love and inspiration. They feel good about the show and they feel good about themselves," he added.

After doing "My Binondo Girl," Richard shared that it took some serious thinking on his part whether or not to continue his old marketing job or try his luck in showbiz.

With the undying support of the fans, he gave acting a try.

"Be Careful With My Heart" now dominates the ratings game as the program garners a regular 30 plus percent in its timeslot.

The cast of the popular series have traveled to Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, key cities in Metro Manila and Subic for a couple of mall tours. In Market, Market in Taguig City alone, the cast were greeted by more than 11,000 fans, the biggest in the show's history.

"Overwhelmed kami sa lahat ng support na pinapakita nila for the show. It makes us happy to see them that they're all happy to see us also. It gives us reason to give them a better show," he ended.

"Be Careful With My Heart" is extended until June of this year. (Sunnex)