The 72nd FAMAS Awards faced controversy when director Vince Tañada replaced veteran actress Eva Darren at the last minute during the event.
Known for his film ‘Katips,’ Tañada stood by his decision, stating that Darren could not be found at the crucial moment she was scheduled to appear on stage.
In his defense, Tañada emphasized that coordinating directly with Darren was not part of his responsibilities.
“Eva Darren was on my script. I wrote the script and I can say that she was there. Before the segment, our staff was looking for her. Hindi siya makita. Considering that we are running a live show and we are streamed live, last minute we had to look for a replacement,” Tañada explained.
Tañada further elaborated on the situation: “Kaya nga ‘yung kumanta before the segment na lang ang kinuha namin. It was a setback that me as a director should remedy at that point. The PRO did not inform us of her presence. Anything can happen in a live show and this is one of those moments. I was just running a show. Coordinatioon with stars was not one of my responsibilites.”
Despite Tañada’s explanation, veteran actress Divina Valencia found the alibi hard to believe, noting that Eva was seen sitting near the stage.
“Hindi ma-locate, eh lahat ng mga artistang dumating, may upuang nakapangalan ng bawat nakaupo?” she remarked.
Showbiz personality Jobert Sucaldito also questioned the explanation by sharing an art card listing the event’s presenters on his Facebook account, pointing out that Eva Darren’s name was absent.
“Hey FAMAS! Someone sent this sa FB feed saying na the day before the awards night ay pinost ng FAMAS ang list of presenters nila and obviously ay wala talaga name ni Ms. Eva Darren dito. Pakipaliwanag,” he wrote.
An official statement from the FAMAS Awards is anticipated to address the controversy in more detail.
