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Raymond says he had to mentally and physically prepare himself for this gig of a lifetime. Is he ready to become the Philippines’ version of Ryan Seacrest?
Raymond says he had to mentally and physically prepare himself for this gig of a lifetime. Is he ready to become the Philippines’ version of Ryan Seacrest? We give you an exclusive look at how Raymond Gutierrez is bent on proving that he is the best man for the job. Text by KC M. Abalos. Interviews by Connie M. Tungul and Xylen Alamo-Punelas. Photos by Mitch S. Mauricio. “I’m very, very thankful to GMA.” Raymond Guttierez. keeps on repeating, as if he cannot believe his good fortune. But his acquisition of the Ryan Seacrest role in the highly anticipated talent search is not about luck. How many times have we seen him encourage or dash a young starlet’s hope when he announces who gets to stay and who has to go? Prep Time For such a big gig, how does he prepare? Is there going to be a difference between Raymond as seen on StarStruck and Raymond the guide of hopeful Pinoy Idols? “This is [indeed] such a big pressure for me. I’m so nervous. How am I gonna differentiate this hosting style from the other shows?” He ponders for a while and continues, “For me it became technical, screwing in my mind. Then at the end of the day, you know what? Just enjoy. Have fun. Talk to the people, get to know them. Why do they wanna sing? Why do they wanna become the first Pinoy Idol?” After giving himself this pep talk, Raymond says it is easier to do his job. He even sometimes feels like he is a stand-up comedian, a psychiatrist and a host rolled into one. He gives an example. “Kasi judge room ‘di ba? Bago sila pumasok, I talk to them first. I make them calm down. Kasi nakikita ko nervous sila. I say to them, halika sabay tayo. Breathe in. Breathe out. Kasi minsan napupunta na rin kaba sa akin!” The “Look” of an Idol Raymond believes that it is part of his job to look good onscreen, which is why he is determined to be in shape before the show airs on March. He reveals, “I lost a lot of weight already. I’m proud to say. This is my goal in 2008. I also don’t want to let the people down since they’re gonna see a lot of me.” In terms of clothes and his look for Idol, he states that he will be more true to his personal style. “I just wanna be myself. I don’t want a lot of effort.” He explains that he needs to be the usual Raymond because it is essential for people to feel comfortable around him. As if he needs to worry about that! Grab your chance to ask any question from our very own insider in the hottest show in Manila today! Be there when Raymond spills the beans on who will become the next Pinoy Idol. Chat with him on April 3, 2008, Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM (Philippine Time). Click here for details! Talk more about Raymond in the iGMA Forums! Here are more stories on Pinoy Idol!: The Pinoy Idol Jury The Idol Invasion Meet the Pinoy Idol Judges May kuwento 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. This service is available only in the Philippines.