Juday gets TV hosting tips from Ryan

JUDY Ann Santos: “You can be sexy at any age.”

Actress Judy Ann Santos has urged detractors on social networking sites to go easy on her. She’s been swamped with negative comments about her weight.

“I’ve been called siopao, monay and aparador,” said the actress, admitting she got accustomed to this kind of name-calling while growing up. “It doesn’t bother me anymore. Let’s just remember that there’s a story in every obesity case. Be careful because your remarks may hurt instead of help the person.”

Judy Ann, who gave birth to her first child in October last year, claimed to have already lost 34 lb. She said there are really no hard and fast rules when it comes to losing weight. “It’s all about discipline. You don’t need a lot of money to keep fit. You can be sexy at any age,” said the wife of TV host Ryan Agoncillo.

Aside from 10-month-old Lucho, Judy Ann and Ryan have an adopted 7-year-old daughter, Yohan.

Back to work, Judy Ann, 33, is host of the competitive cooking game show, “Junior MasterChef: Pinoy Edition,” which premieres August 20 on ABS-CBN.

The local adaptation of the British franchise featuring contestants aged 8 to 12 picks 20 talented kids from a field of 60 to face cooking challenges. Regular eliminations are done until one is proclaimed the First Pinoy Junior MasterChef and winner of a P1-million cash prize and culinary scholarship.

Judging are three of the country’s top chefs – Fernando “Ferns” Aracama, Rolando “Lau” Laudico and JP “Jayps” Anglo.

TOP CHEFS. “Junior MasterChef: Pinoy Edition” judges Rolando “Lau” Laudico, Fernando “Ferns” Aracama and Chef JP “Jayps” Anglo

“The chefs and I really make sure to taste every dish the kids cook,” she said. “If there’s a particular dish we like, nauubos talaga namin. Since I’m on a diet, I adjust. I don’t eat before going to the set. When I get home, I just eat an apple or a cup of yogurt.”

Judy Ann wore a slim-fitting black dress when she faced entertainment writers last on Wednesday. She gamely talked about her passion for cooking, her fears of being a first-time host and of her relationship with husband Ryan. Excerpts:

What made you say yes to hosting?

This project is a dream come true. I’m a fan of the original series. I’ve decided that I want to try on new things, explore. I’ve already proven that I could be a good actor. A reality show is the perfect comeback vehicle for me. It’s stress-free. I just play with the kids.

When Tatay Lauren (Dyogi, director/producer) first showed me the logo, naiyak na ako. I said I’d do it. Tatay knows of my culinary background. Plus, I’m a new mother. He knows I can very well handle 60 kids.

How did you prepare for the show?

I watched the original series. I also asked tips from Ryan. He told me to “just go with the flow, say what you want to say.” He said not to worry if I commit mistakes, the production staff would call my attention anyway. It’s good that the chefs are there to guide me. It also helps that I’m a natural with kids.

Are you aware of online reports linking Ryan to different girls?

Yes, although we never talk about it at home. I’m amazed at how well these people can create stories. They should work as teleserye writers. I never doubted Ryan. I didn’t even ask him to explain about this. He’s a very honest guy.

How did you react to the rumored romance between him and Brazilian Daiana Menezes, his “Eat Bulaga” cohost?

’Wag na sana lagyan ng malisya. They’re all part of one big family. I’m a witness to this.  Let’s not give them a reason to feel ill-at-ease with each other.

Are you also working on film projects?

We started filming “My House Husband” (Octo-Arts Films) last Monday. I’m working with Direk Joey (Reyes) and the cast of “Kasal Kasali Kasalo” (2006) here. I also can’t wait to work on my scenes with Eugene Domingo.

I will also do a movie with Coco Martin (under Star Cinema). The film was supposed to be a Metro Manila Film Festival entry but it wasn’t able to meet the deadline. I guess it’s better if it would have its own play date. It’s a really beautiful story.

photos by RYAN RAMOS/ABS-CBN