‘Iconic’ love story

AREVALO AND PEREZ. Love over career.

AFTER OUR article on Dolly Parton’s 50th wedding anniversary came out, some readers chimed in to ask about local show biz’s “counterpart” to that uncharacteristically (for the biz) long and loyal tale of love and devotion.

Who among our screen luminaries have loved each other for at least half a century, inspiringly proving that love can last “forever”—pa more?

There are others, but the first Filipino stars who came to mind are close to our hearts—Barbara Perez and Robert Arevalo, who were wed in 1962.

Like Dolly and her husband Carl, the Arevalos have an interesting and colorful back “drama” to their “iconic” love story: After they became sweethearts, Barbara took a break from her stellar career as a Sampaguita Pictures contract artist, because she was tapped by the producers of the Hollywood film, “No Man Is An Island,” to costar with the handsome and popular US star, Jeffrey Hunter.

It was a plum role that was coveted by actresses all over the world. Barbara did so well that she was offered a long-term contract!

Unfortunately for the Hollywood studio, when “forced” to choose between love and international stardom, Barbara took a deep breath—and chose Robert.

Goodbye, Hollywood—but, hello, Mrs. Arevalo!

Barbara and Robert have been so happy as a married couple and proud parents of their two daughters, Anna and Georgina, that, looking back, the still radiant “golden” wife, mother and grandmother wouldn’t have it any other way!

As for Robert, when he counts his blessings, Barbara is still at the top of the “lifelong gifts” that he’s most grateful for.

They still act together on occasion, in indie projects like “Gulong,” but most of the time, Barbara is happy to encourage and support Robert as he attends to his busy TV taping schedule.