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“I cannot believe I’m hosting Pinoy Idol!” Raymond Gutierrez stated in an exclusive interview with iGMA.
“I cannot believe I’m hosting Pinoy Idol!” Raymond Gutierrez stated in an exclusive interview with iGMA. Well, we can believe it! With his experience in StarStruck and Showbiz Central, it is no surprise that he is given the task of hosting the most prestigious and most watched talent search in the world. Text by KC M. Abalos. Interview by Connie M. Tungul and Xylen Alamo-Punelas. The Philippine’s version of Ryan Seacrest is none other than Raymond Gutierrez. His fans may not be surprised with GMA’s decision but the guy in question is still very much in shock. “It’s so unexpected. Because you know how GMA just gave me Showbiz Central so it never entered my mind that I would be hosting Pinoy Idol!” he says with a happy grin. Despite his humility, Raymond is indeed the obvious choice. After co-hosting the original “artista” search, StarStruck and being a regular in the weekly program, Showbiz Central, Raymond has proven his mettle in handling the exciting real-life drama that happens on and off screen during live programs. He is cool under pressure but he is also a hot host when the need arises. Getting the Job He then tells iGMA how he found out that he bagged the project. He was on vacation in New York during the New Year when he got the call from the big bosses of GMA. They requested for a meeting as soon as he is back home in Manila. “Usually, meetings are either good news or bad news.” He shares and continues, “so a few days before the meeting, I was like, oh my god, am I gonna be fired? Or am I gonna be given a new blessing?” A huge blessing it turned out to be! Not only is he going to get a new show, he will be the local voice and face of a global franchise. Raymond’s initial reaction was excitement then nervousness reared its ugly head. He relays, “Pressure! I’m following the footsteps of Ryan Seacrest in the States. Who we know is a radio DJ.” He then shares his admiration for the guy whose shoes he has to fill. “I like his hosting style. It’s very natural. It’s very easy watching the show because of him.” Adding to the pressure and the pride that he should feel is the fact that Freemantle Productions, the company who owns the Idol franchise has final say on the specifics of the show. This includes the format of the program, the judges, and, of course, the master of ceremonies. Raymond reveals, “Kasi everything has to be approved by Fremantle in London, the main office. As in, if they don’t like your profile or whatever. They still have a say. Although GMA still has suggestions but they have to approve.” These little details say a lot about Pinoy Idol and what we can expect from the show. Raymond says he had to mentally and physically prepare himself for this gig of a lifetime. In the second installment of An Idol hosting Pinoy Idol, we will reveal more of his secrets. Watch out! Talk more about Raymond in the iGMA Forum! May kwento pa sa iyo RAYMOND. Text RAYMOND [Your Message] and send to 4627 for all telcos. Each text costs Php2.50 for Globe, Touch Mobile, Smart and Talk N’ Text subscribers, and Php2.00 for Sun Cellular subscribers.