Kapamilya actor Richard Gutierrez has spoken out about persistent rumors linking Barbie Imperial to his separation from wife Sarah Lahbati, firmly stating that there was no overlap between the two relationships.
Gutierrez addressed the issue during a vlog interview with Ogie Diaz, released on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Gutierrez set the record straight, emphasizing that Imperial was not a factor in his breakup with Lahbati.
“Ang gusto ko lang sigurong i-clarify doon sa mga tao is that si Barbie walang kinalaman sa paghihiwalay namin ni Sarah. Hindi siya third party, hindi nag-overlap,” Gutierrez explained.
He also noted that Imperial has been receiving unwarranted criticism online, which he felt obligated to address. “Nung nakilala ko si Barbie, matagal na kaming nagkahiwalay ng landas ni Sarah,” he added.
Acknowledging the public backlash, Gutierrez expressed his intent to protect Imperial from unfounded accusations. “Kailangan ko siyang protektahan,” he said.
The actor revealed that their connection initially stemmed from their mutual involvement in a pub business, where they are co-owners. Dating rumors began after the pair were spotted together at a gastropub in Alabang.
Gutierrez shared his admiration for Imperial’s authenticity and kindness, which he found refreshing. “Si Barbie kasi totoong tao, mabuting tao, maalaga. Makikita mo na genuine ‘yung intentions niya, genuine ‘yung pagkatao niya,” he said.
Gutierrez appealed to the public to avoid making baseless assumptions about their personal lives. “Siguro for now, nakikita naman ng mga tao, do’n muna tayo sa what you see is what you get sa amin ni Barbie,” he concluded.
With this clarification, Gutierrez hopes to put an end to the speculations and focus on moving forward with positivity.
