Mariel Rodriguez
Actress-TV host Mariel Rodriguez is pleased that her husband, Robin Padilla, hasn’t allowed himself to get lured into politics, despite being repeatedly wooed to run for senator in the 2016 elections.
“Robin always gets invited to meetings. I’m very thankful that he has shown no interest, and turns down all offers,” Mariel told reporters at a press con for TV5’s “Talentadong Pinoy 2014,” which she and Robin host with comedienne Tuesday Vargas.
Mariel insisted that Robin could help the needy even without holding a government post. Robin pointed out that a politician’s salary wouldn’t be enough for his family. “Some of my children study abroad,” he said. “And I won’t ever resort to stealing.”
Déjà vu
The show biz couple is excited to work on “Talentado,” recounting that they first met while sharing hosting duties in the now-defunct ABS-CBN noontime show “Wowowee.”
“It made me reminisce,” quipped the 44-year-old actor.
Though it’s “fun and comfortable” working with her husband, the 30-year-old Mariel said, they made it a point not to get too cozy on the set. They avoid calling each other “babe” on-cam, she said, explaining “You need a different mindset at work.” They also agreed not to report to work at the same time, and to have separate dressing rooms.
Robin enjoys hosting and the challenges that come with it. “I mostly sang in ‘Wowowee.’ But in ‘Talentado,’ I am expected to carry the show,” he said. “I don’t get tired because I love it.”
Neither does he mind being compared to the program’s previous host, Ryan Agoncillo. “I’m an action star, not a host. I focus on helping the contenders,” Robin said.
He added that he could offer “energy.” As someone who thrives on excitement and danger, Robin sometimes tries the stunts that contenders perform onstage. In one clip, he clambered up the fabric used by aerial dancers.
‘Controlling’ wife
Robin Padilla
“It’s the adrenaline,” Robin said. “That’s why it’s good to have my wife in the show, to control me.”
Asked if Mariel—a more experienced host—gives him pointers, Robin revealed that he asks his wife to critique his performance.
“She points out my mistakes. Mariel reminds me to manage my energy because I tend to shout a lot,” Robin said.
Replying to the inevitable question about baby plans, Mariel said they might try for one in two years. Meanwhile, Robin jested that “Talentado” would be their baby for now. “We want to travel some more,” he said.
“Talentadong Pinoy 2014” airs Saturdays at 7 p.m.
(apolicarpio@inquirer.com.ph)