Talent manager Mannix Carancho came to the defense of his artist Sofia “Fyang” Smith, dismissing long-running claims that the ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11’ Big Winner has a “bad attitude.”
Speaking during a Mannix Management press conference in Quezon City, Carancho said the public has simply misunderstood Fyang’s personality.
He recalled how the actress first became part of his talent agency several years ago.
“Bumibisita sa Mannix House, nagko-content. Nagustuhan po namin siya at nagustuhan niya rin ‘yung environment doon. Naging probationary muna kami for three to six months. Ngayon, three years ko na siyang mina-manage.”
According to Mannix, he immediately saw Fyang’s potential, although he admitted he did not expect her rise to fame to happen so quickly.
“‘Di ko naman sobrang in-expect, pero nakitaan ko siya ng potential na malayo ang mararating niya. Talented po siya at marunong makisama.”
When asked about allegations that the young actress is “maldita” or difficult to work with, Mannix firmly denied the claims.
He explained that Fyang is naturally reserved around people she has yet to get to know, which some mistakenly interpret as arrogance.
“Siguro dahil hindi niya pa close ‘yung maraming tao, akala tinatarayan sila. Pero kapag nakilala n’yo siya, wala kang masasabi sa pakikisama niya.”
He further described his talent as someone who is kind-hearted and free from insecurities.
“Napakabait, walang masamang tinapay. Walang insecurities. Gusto niya lang mag-enjoy.”
Mannix also rejected suggestions that fame has changed Fyang.
“Para sa akin, hindi naman po. Parang lumiit pa nga kasi mas seryoso na siya sa trabaho. Misunderstood lang.”
Beyond managing celebrities, Mannix said one of his responsibilities is guiding young artists as they navigate the entertainment industry, while allowing them to make their own personal decisions.
Asked about Fyang’s much-talked-about closeness with fellow ‘PBB Gen 11’ housemate JM Ibarra, the talent manager said he does not interfere in his artist’s love life, choosing instead to offer advice whenever necessary.
Fyang first rose to prominence after emerging as the Big Winner of ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11’ in 2024. She is currently co-managed by Mannix Management and ABS-CBN’s Star Magic.
Following her breakthrough, the actress has continued to secure acting and endorsement projects. She is also part of the upcoming 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival horror entry ‘Haunted Carnival,’ one of the year’s most anticipated releases.