Maya does Rihanna, but Ser Chief won’t dance in concert

JODI Sta. Maria and Richard Yap with their twins in the show.

Actress Jodi Sta. Maria, whose character Maya de la Rosa in “Be Careful With My Heart” made her a household name, said she would now have to be more selective with her projects.

“I can’t imagine doing daring roles. However, it would really depend on the project. I was thinking that after this show, I would only accept projects that impart good values to viewers. We know how powerful television is …  I feel that I have a responsibility to protect the viewers.”

Jodi clarified that the romantic comedy series would not be ending soon, in spite of online criticism that the story has been stretched far too long.

“We can’t please everybody. We just decided to focus on those who still appreciate the show,” she pointed out. “We’ve read a lot of positive comments—inspiring stories of our kababayan abroad who use the show as a way to fight homesickness.”

Jodi’s costar Richard Yap, better known as Ser Chief, recalled an interesting story of a widow who sent him a thank-you note. “She felt so depressed when her husband passed away that she thought of committing suicide. She said the show made her change her mind. Her letter was touching. I took time out to meet her,” he recounted.

To bashers, Richard had this to say: “They can always switch channels and watch another show. We’re not forcing them to watch us. We’re doing this for all our supporters.”

To thank their fans and to celebrate the program’s second year, ABS-CBN has organized a free concert titled “I Heart You 2: The Be Careful With My Heart Anniversary Thanksgiving” at the Araneta Coliseum on July 25.

The cast members will perform with singers Erik Santos, Juris and Richard Poon.

“You will not see me doing sexy numbers. I’m still the same wholesome Maya, but I’ll be doing Rihanna songs. I can’t say anything about my outfits yet because I still have to discuss them with my stylist. I’ll be working with the G Force Dancers and I’m very excited,” Jodi said.

Two left feet

Richard said he would be singing more Filipino songs in the concert. “Don’t expect me to dance. I have two left feet,” he quipped. “The performances will be patterned after our characters. I’ll have production numbers with Jodi and Aiza (Seguerra, who plays Maya’s younger sister Kute).”

Jodi said the program has changed her life in many ways. “I never imagined that I’d be given the opportunity to visit Filipinos abroad and perform for them. My character has also taught me to be more patient and understanding,” she said.

After appearing in the shows “My Binondo Girl” and “Walang Hanggan,” Richard said he seriously considered quitting show business. “Looking back, I’m glad I chose acting as my career. I never expected ‘Be Careful’ to be so successful. I thought it would only last a season.”

Tickets to the “I Heart You 2” concert will be distributed on July 21 and 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the ABS-CBN Center Road entrance.

Email [email protected].