Carmina and Zoren’s show biz advice to their twins: Be thick-skinned

Mavy (left) and Cassy Legaspi

Mavy and Cassy Legaspi, the twin children of celebrity couple Carmina Villaroel and Zoren Legaspi, said their decision to enter show biz wasn’t influenced by their parents.

“They didn’t force us to do this or push us to sign anything. They let us decide for ourselves, so everything you’re seeing from us right now is from our hearts,” Mavy told the Inquirer at a recent press conference for GMA 7’s upcoming weekly variety show, “Studio 7,” which starts airing on Oct. 14.

But while Carmina and Zoren have always been “very supportive” of their kids’ interest in performing, Cassy said she still couldn’t help but feel the pressure.

“Not to be biased, but I think my parents are good actors. I want to follow in their footsteps, so I know I have to do my best and enhance my skills,” related Cassy, who has also undergone workshops with her brother to prepare themselves “for challenges ahead.”

Mavy, however, isn’t as affected. “Mom and dad always remind us to do what we have to do and don’t mind them. They tell us that Cassy and I shouldn’t feel like we’re living in their shadows. We’re here to create our own names and [carve] own paths in the business,” he said.

“They’re going to be there for us every step of the way,” Mavy added. “We’re supposed to learn from them and not get pressured by them.”

Asked what sort of advice her parents had given her, Cassy said: “That we have to know ourselves well and that being thick-skinned is just as important.”

Education remains their top priority, but Cassy and Mavy hope to do as many television projects as they could on the side.

The twins signed a management contract with GMA Artist Center earlier this year.

 Guest appearances

Aside from their stint in “Studio 7,” they have also made guest appearances in shows and sitcoms like “Pepito Manaloto.”

“That was a  fun experience and we look forward to doing more of that,” Mavy said. “It feels good being a newbie here in the biz. We didn’t know many people at first, but everyone has been so welcoming so far. I’m learning a lot from my coartists every day,” he said.

In terms of what he wants to achieve as an actor, Mavy said he’s not looking too far ahead at the moment.

“I’m taking it one day at a time. I want to enjoy myself, but at the same time balance work with my studies.”

For Cassy, the following months will be a crucial period of “self-discovery.”

“I enjoyed the acting jobs I have had so far. But I also want to try other things, like hosting and singing. I look forward to exploring what else I can do,” she said. “This will be an exciting journey.”

Although the twins are open to different kinds of projects, they seemed unsure, however, about the prospect of having a love team. “Ask my dad!” quipped Cassy, laughing.

“I’m willing to try—work is work. But yeah, maybe our parents may have a say about that,” Mavy added.