‘Born To Be A Star’ judge Andrew E on handling fame

CEBU, Philippines —  Iconic Pinoy rapper and comedian Andrew E has never grieved over his waning popularity after years of lording over the Pinoy music scene and box office with his rap hits and comedy flicks. He’s cultivated a grounded mindset with fame early on, in part because of his lolo’s advice, and also because of the many cautionary tales he’s been privy to.

“The day I happened to taste fame is the day I accepted that it’s already gone. Para mas madali sa akin,” the “Born To Be A Star” judge – or Star Agent, as the TV5 and Viva Entertainment show puts it – said when asked how fame had changed him. “Because fame is not like a bag of coins that you put in your pocket and will remain there.”

“Even before I entered showbiz I already knew from others, from insiders, from the people I watch on television, that fame can be your best friend or your worst enemy. You could be mesmerized by your fame and crying in a corner when it’s gone. So for me, the moment you achieve it, tell yourself – and this is what I did years ago – that the day you had it is the day you lost it. So it will be easier for you to accept kung mawala man o hindi.”

One wisdom from his grandfather that the “Pakboys Takusa” star takes to heart until this day is not to fixate over what’s beyond your reach. “He used to say na kung mataas ang bituin, huwag mong abutin. Kasi kahit isang daang taon, hindi mo maaabot yan. Pero abutin mo ang lupa, kalahating segundo, mahahawakan mo. So there’s happiness in doing what is easy. And what is easy is not to gain fame. What is easy is to show your talent. That will be the easiest.”