Barbie Forteza believes that artists have a deeper role to play beyond the screen — one that involves positively influencing their audience.
“Syempre tayong mga artista, meron tayong responsibility to always influence in a good way, to always encourage, to always inspire,” Forteza said in a recent interview with Toni Gonzaga. “So ever since, naging mindful naman ako dyan sa bagay na yan,” she added.
“Tayong mga artista, meron tayong responsibility to always influence in a good way, to always encourage, to always inspire..” -Barbie Forteza
May isang hindi makarelate. pic.twitter.com/g5oS04mVHc
— Auntie Selina (@auntieselina_) July 7, 2025
Forteza’s remark quickly sparked conversations online, with netizens interpreting her statement as a subtle jab at her host. Comments such as “Toni left the group! Good one Barbie!” and “Simpleng patama naman si ate mo Barbie kay Otin G. Haha” circulated on social media.
Whether or not the statement was intended as shade, Forteza’s words align with her image as one of today’s most admired actresses. From her early beginnings as a child star to becoming GMA Network’s ‘Kapuso Primetime Princess,’ she has maintained a reputation for authenticity, professionalism, and depth — both on and off screen.
Over the years, Barbie has headlined some of the network’s most successful dramas and critically acclaimed indie films. Her performances in ‘Mariquina’, ‘Laut’, ‘Tuos’, and ‘Almost a Love Story’ earned her numerous acting awards and cemented her status as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. More recently, her roles in ‘Maria Clara at Ibarra’ (2023) and ‘Pulang Araw’ (2024) brought her to the forefront of mainstream historical drama — genres not typically embraced by a wide local audience.
Now more than ever, Forteza is not just being recognized for her acting chops, but also for the values she upholds as a public figure.
