Why Kim Chiu can’t be good friends with her exes

Kim Chiu

Kim Chiu has been a star since she was declared “Pinoy Big Brother’s” first teen big winner in 2006, at age 17. If we go by Kim’s 42-day stay inside the “PBB” house, it could explain why the Kapamilya actress has remained well-liked despite Tinseltown’s quick and high turnover of stars—she was the only housemate in her batch who was never nominated for eviction.

Twelve years after savoring that life-changing and career-boosting triumph, the 28-year-old actress continues to be affable and accessible, even when we met her for this short but sweet one-on-one chat on Tuesday.

At her splashy launch as the latest endorser of multivitamin brand Berocca Singles Sachet, Kim looked gorgeous and all gussied up, but she made it a point to speak to us in Cebuano when she learned that we grew up in Davao.

Kim has such a glass-half-full mentality that even when she feels stultified by the downside of fame and fortune, she prefers to see it as either a necessary inconvenience or a learning experience. She’s brimming with optimism and good cheer, as always.

“It took me a while to adjust to the fact that along with success and popularity came the loss of privacy,” she shrugged her shoulders as she spoke with disarming candor. “I have accepted that it’s part of the career trajectory I chose to take. You can’t have your pie and eat it, too.”

But the actress said she would still encourage aspiring actors to take the talent-search route, because it’s the quickest way to idol-seekers’ consciousness.

“The public will instantly see your strengths and weaknesses, and they’ll figure out what makes you vulnerable—which was true in my case,” she shared with us. “And as they watch you grow, they’re like proud parents who rally behind your every success. Wala ka ngang private life, but at least the public knows there’s nothing put-on about you.”

If she looks fit and fabulous, it isn’t just genes—Kim likewise attributes her fresh and youthful countenance to dedication, training and hard work: “My daily workout regimen at home includes ‘spinning’ (a cardio exercise designed to burn more calories in a shorter period). I go biking for 30 to 45 minutes every other day before I go to work. Then, when I have time to spare, I do Pilates [for stronger limbs, good posture, efficient mobility and better body awareness].”

The actress has had an interesting career arc, but she said she wouldn’t change anything if she could: “Mahirap i-sustain ang popularity, especially with the stiff competition in show biz and the destructive nature of social media these days. It hasn’t always been easy for me, but I love and appreciate the lessons I’ve learned from my journey so far. So, I have no regrets—I won’t change anything.”

We loved the actress’ finely limned and age-appropriate portrayal in Chito Roño’s “The Ghost Bride.” When asked what other movie genres and roles she’d like to essay on the big screen, Kim disclosed, “I want more movies that shine the light on the Chinese culture. And I’d love to act in an action thriller. That’s right up my alley because I’m into Muay Thai and kickboxing these days—so, I’m issuing this warning to boys [who can’t be trusted]: Beware. Lagot sila sa akin … marunong na ako ngayon (laughs)!”

Speaking of boys, does she think ex-lovers can become good friends?

Kim replied with a knowing grin, “If the breakup is mutual, you can remain friends—yes. But, you can’t be close again or be very good friends with your ex if your breakup was bad. Kasi, ’pag naging close kayo ulit, the situation [might get more complicated].

Her romantic life has always been fodder for speculation. But, Kim was game when we asked her if she has serenaded a guy with her hit single and asked him, “Ikaw nga ba si Mr. Right?” Her answer: “(Laughs) Oo naman!”

But, even without a romantic inspiration, the actress also enjoys spending time alone or with her friends. “I’m a homebody—hindi ako mahilig sa gimik, except when I have to attend birthday parties. I go to friends’ houses and hang out with them—or I cook.”

Doesn’t proficiency in cooking prepare her for a more domesticated life … as a housewife? Kim answered, giggling: “Oh my God! … Pero pwede (laughs)!”