Survey says, "Richard Gomez is one of the most admired TV male personalities this year."
Indeed, the 42-year-old actor's popular line in his game show Family Feud has become germane to his popularity among Pinoy viewers.
The annual nationwide survey—which had 4,500 respondents, including children—was conducted by Southeast Asian Foundation for Children and Television, which advocates responsible and kid-friendly TV programming and improved TV viewing in Philippine households. The results (Click this link to view complete list of winners) were released a few days ago, and it's Goma's first time to receive an Anak TV Seal award.
In a phone conversation with PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal), Richard could not hide his elation. The good news was relayed to him by the executive producer of Family Feud yesterday afternoon, December 5.
"I am very surprised and very happy," the host-actor said. "Kasi ibig sabihin, that's how people see my character now either on TV or in person. That also means they see me as wholesome."
As an actor, we know that he can be very intense in terms of attacking his character. As a showbiz talk-show host, he can be very opinionated. As a sportsman, he's very competitive. But as the host of Family Feud, he's more relaxed, breezy and charming.
He related, "Hosting the show is a great move. Nakita talaga ng tao yung other side ng personality ko sa Family Feud."
The former matinee idol now joins the ranks of other popular television personalities: Mike Enriquez, Arnold Clavio, Julius Babao, Ted Failon, Gary Valenciano, Aga Muhlach, Robin Padilla, Edu Manzano, Cesar Montano, Piolo Pascual, and John Lloyd Cruz, including newbies Kim Atienza and Gerald Anderson.
Richard said, addressing the respondents, "I am very happy about winning this award. Thank you so much for choosing me. It's really a surprise to me."
He ended gleefully, "Double celebration ito para sa akin kasi the other night, si Lucy naman ang napili bilang Best Female Host [for talent search show Shall We Dance?] sa PMPC Star Awards."