SHOWBITZ: Carla Abellana, beautifully refined

MANILA, Philippines – Actress Carla Abellana is one of a few young celebrities who — despite coming from a lineage of actors — has managed to keep her life fairly quiet and scandal-free.

Her grandmother is the legendary actress Delia Razon, and her father is the ’80s heartthrob Rey “PJ” Abellana.

She broke into showbusiness quite late, at 22, when she bagged the lead role in the GMA 7 remake of the Thalia telenovela hit, Rosalinda, in 2009.

Unknown to many, before that, Carla auditioned for a role to be one of the 3 leading ladies of Richard Gutierrez in Zorro.

Rappler chatted with the young actress who told us that it took her current boyfriend, Geoff Eigenmann, one year to make her give him her “yes.”

Rappler: How has joining showbusiness affected your personal life?

Carla: It was very difficult when I was starting (in 2009, she and Ateneo basketball player JC Intal were then an item). It was hard for him to understand how the industry worked. It got to the point where I had to choose between work and personal life.

How are you and Geoff doing?

It’s easier because we’re in the same industry. He understands how things go. We were good friends before he courted me for a year. He won my confidence. For me, he was a co-actor; but his effort and perseverance to win me over paid off.

Who are the actors you look up to?

My grandmother. Until now, at her age, her reputation is untarnished. 

I also look up to veterans like Ate Regine (Velasquez) and Kuya Ogie (Alcasid). The ones who have been in the industry the longest are also the nicest. They’re a real inspiration. – Rappler.com