Kapamilya star Richard Gutierrez addressed the controversy surrounding the upcoming ABS-CBN action series ‘Incognito’, where some netizens have labeled its cast members as “cheaters.”
The remarks surfaced after co-stars Anthony Jennings and Maris Racal were embroiled in a cheating controversy.
The online chatter intensified after the show’s cast was announced, with some suggesting that ‘The Cheaters’ would be a more fitting title for the series.
The Cheaters in 1 Picture. #Incognito #MarisRacal pic.twitter.com/GDzZMAP1SR
— ℂ (@abchinx) December 3, 2024
Dapat di Incognito title neto eh dapat “The Cheaters”
Maris Racal
Anthony Jennings
Daniel Padilla (-2)
Richard Gutierrez (-1) pic.twitter.com/YpCzzT2w01— ♛ 230 (@dainsleiftham) December 3, 2024
Ang kakapal ng mga cheaters. Incognito should be titled as Cheaters Series.
Birds of the same feather flock together. pic.twitter.com/MrbgVnbcpU
— h (ia) ✨ (@_seonstay) December 3, 2024
yung serye na incognito ano yan cheater po ba isa sa qualifications nyo nakakaloka halos lahat ng main cast problematic !!!
— (@k4thwaii) December 3, 2024
girl??? i’m so disappointed maris racal anueba hindi nakaka girl’s girl taena mo anthony huhu incognito talaga is a bunch of cheaters na cast minus ian and kaila https://t.co/RVhwUleFCx pic.twitter.com/o30lFQC3E8
— yna | multi (ia; ) (@nieleynne) December 3, 2024
These comments stemmed from past allegations against some of its stars, including Richard himself, who was previously linked to actress Barbie Imperial during a challenging time in his marriage to Sarah Lahbati.
In an interview on ‘Ogie Diaz Inspires’, Richard responded to the criticism, demonstrating calmness and understanding despite the controversy.
“Hindi ba kayo napikon do’n sa isyung nagsasama raw ang mga cheaters?” asked Ogie Diaz during the interview.
Richard answered, “Hindi naman nila alam ang bawat kuwento ng nangyari. Gusto lang nilang mag-trending.”
The actor emphasized the importance of being cautious with words on social media, especially when discussing matters involving other people. “Naiintindihan ko naman na ‘yong mga tao ngayon very active sa social media pero sana siyempre ingatan din nila ‘yong mga words nila; ‘yong mga sinasabi nila,” he added.
Richard made it clear that he does not let such comments affect him, focusing instead on his work and the people who truly know him. “Hindi ko na rin masyadong pinapansin o pinapaapekto sa akin ‘yong mga gano’n. Kasi ‘yong mga taong kilala ko, ‘yong pamilya ko, ‘yong kaibigan ko, alam naman talaga nila ‘yong totoo,” he explained.
The actor also highlighted the effort and dedication poured into Incognito, urging viewers to appreciate the series for what it aims to deliver.
‘Incognito’ marks Richard Gutierrez’s return to ABS-CBN primetime, following his successful projects like ‘La Luna Sangre’ and ‘The Iron Heart’. The action-packed series is expected to showcase his prowess as an action star, alongside a talented ensemble cast.
Set to premiere in February 2025, ‘Incognito’ aims to captivate viewers with its thrilling plot, dynamic characters, and high-stakes action sequences.
Richard concluded with a hopeful note: “I hope people give the show a chance because we’ve worked hard to deliver something extraordinary.”
