Twenty one years have passed, but Nikki Valdez still remembers her Star Circle days like it were only yesterday.
The actress remembered the good old days, where she described herself as “an 18-year-old who loved to sing and perform, but was a reluctant artist and a self-proclaimed ugly duckling,” in a throwback Instagram post on Friday. She shared a batch photo from 1997 where familiar faces such as those of Kristine Hermosa, Dominic Ochoa, Jericho Rosales, Julia Clarete, Carol Banawa and Dimples Romana are included.
Admitting that her biggest fear was failure, she narrated how people were encouraging her to go into show business. As an answer, she would always tell them ‘no,’ “kasi sure ako hindi naman ako matatanggap. Haha!” (Because I’m sure I won’t get accepted. Haha!)
Valdez recalled how one telegram from ABS-CBN requesting her presence changed her life forever: “I remember taking numerous buses from Laguna to Quezon City with my Mom every week to attend extensive training and acting workshops with Directors Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes (our batch was the last to be mentored by their group).”
As the months went by, the moment of truth came when she was interviewed by former Star Circle manager Johnny Manahan along the halls of the ABS-CBN building. As luck would have it, she was cast as a member of the batch.
“What a journey it has been!” she expressed. “I will cherish and always look back to all the beautiful and even the not so beautiful experiences for without them, I would not be here still.”
As for her batch mates, she said in admiration, “Some of us may have gone own our path in life, but the memories and lessons (and friendships) remain.”
Fans went nostalgic upon seeing Valdez’s post. One netizen even shared that he tried his luck to join Star Circle, but to no avail.
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@nikkivaldez_
Another follower, @dessert_starlight, likened Valdez to a grown-up version of her daughter, Olivia.
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@nikkivaldez_
Valdez’s generation of idols from the 1990s indeed left a mark to fans, as one follower cheered them on.
Image: Screengrab from Instagram/@nikkivaldez_
Years after being a part of Star Magic Circle, Valdez still enjoys success as an actress. She currently stars in the afternoon teleserye “Sana Dalawa Ang Puso” with Jodi Sta. Maria, Robin Padilla and Richard Yap. JB
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