BB: I worked as androgynous model in NY

BB GANDANGHARI misses acting. FACEBOOK PHOTO

As soon as Zoren Legazpi arrived at the TV5 studio last Saturday for “Paparazzi,” the ribbing started: “Are you finally ready to  meet BB Gandanghari face to face?”

Everybody knows that BB is Zoren’s wife Carmina Villaroel’s ex-boyfriend –when BB was the male actor formerly known as Rustom Padilla! Zoren was uneasy the whole time, but he looked exceptionally gorgeous that day with his brushed-up hairstyle.

But what if BB was attracted to Zoren? The latter let out a nervous laughter.

When BB finally entered the set, Zoren grabbed a tabloid and pretended to read it. After a few minutes, he went to the dressing room and watched BB’s interview from there. Before we ended, I asked Zoren how he felt looking at BB from a distance?

“Akala ko dati OK-OK lang,” he says. “Sabi ko pa nga, kaya ko ang one-on-one interview with BB. Pero iba pala pag actual na. Buti na rin hindi natuloy ang interview namin because it might have opened old wounds. I must admit it felt kinda eeky. Siguro in time I will be ready to work with him. But it is not problem with me if he does a project with Carmina. Professional naman kami lahat. Nabigla lang talaga ako today kasi first time ko makita si BB in person.”

Zoren’s reaction is understandable. Seeing his wife’s ex [who has turned into a woman] while all eyes were on them in the studio was perhaps a little too much to bear. Did BB’s presence remind him of something he did not want to remember?  It certainly seemed to unsettle him. But the past is past.  He should let it go.

Androgynous model

ZOREN Legazpi not ready to face wife’s ex.

I actually enjoyed my tête-à-tête with BB. Read on:

What kept you busy in New York?

I worked as an androgynous model. That’s the in thing now there. In fact, one of the top models there is a man who wears female clothes. Fashion in New York is leaning towards the genderless kind. I had to achieve the ideal form and weight for that. That’s why I have a different shape now.

What made you decide to come home?

I missed acting. I will stay here for three months. I don’t want to stay in one place for too long because I get bored. After my business is done, I want to pack up and go someplace else. I am always on the lookout for adventure.

What are your immediate plans while you’re here?

I have a concept for a drama anthology where I will portray different women characters. If a network likes my idea, then go na ako to shoot.

Are you willing to work with Carmina?

I am willing to work with anybody. Kay Carmina siguro dapat mag-usap muna kami in private before we face the cameras, so it will not turn into a circus.

What was it like to see Zoren in the studio?

Maganda siya pagnaka-blow dry ang hair niya, in fairness! OK lang sa akin if he becomes my leading man. Chos!

Have Robin and Mommy Eva fully accepted your transformation into BB?

Si Mommy now lang, pag-uwi ko, nafeel ko ang full support niya. Robin is protective of me but not too protective. May konting hesitation pa siya, but in time I know he will understand my decision.

ROBIN Padilla

How is your love life?

I go on dates. I went out with a black guy. He was sweet. The Japanese guy was galante naman. Basta ako, my number one rule is I should never spend for a guy. Pack-up na pag ganoon ang setup. And in order to attract a guy who respects me as I am, I should act respectable as well and keep my self-respect intact. I have never been happier and surer about who I am than now. Dapat buo ang pagkatao ko, or else tatapak-tapakan ako.

Did you or did you not have a sex change?

What is between my legs is my own private business. I do not want to feel naked by answering questions pertaining to that part of my anatomy. What you see is what you get. If you like what you see in me, great. If not, then look the other way.

PERSONAL: Kudos to my beloved “sister,” Vivian Sarabia, for being chosen as the chair of the Professional Regulation Commission Board of Optometry.

For feedback, e-mail [email protected]