KC faces onset of intrigues

KC CONCEPCION will soon start her show biz career with a television special on ABS-CBN. Part of her entry into show biz is, naturally, the onset of intrigues. First, the long-time rumor linking her to film-TV director Lino Cayetano. Then the controversial statement of singer Billy Crawford that she was a "good kisser." Amid all the intrigues, however, KC remained poised and unaffected, still beaming that affectionate smile when reporters continue to bug her about these so-called issues. About Lino, she politely gave not really a showbiz remark but a response anyone could give: it's something personal and should remain as such, without confirming or denying the rumor. As for Billy, she immediately said that the comments made by the international Filipino singing sensation was understandable and would not think of making them to undermine her person. With his public apology, KC did not waste any more words: "Apology accepted." She comes into show biz without any sign of antagonism or indifference -- a fresh breeze amid a polluted set of pretentious souls. Here's hoping she remains as wonderful as she is once the real challenges of a show biz career becomes evident to her. I'm sure she will. * * * There's an interesting rivalry on Philippine TV. No, not really the continuing ABS-CBN vs GMA-7 network wars but the international reality television producers apparently joining the protracted battle. Dutch giant Endemol, which has partnered with ABS-CBN since 2003 for the Pinoy Big Brother franchise, is now faced with a formidable opponent: the British Fremantle empire that spawned the "Idol" phemonenon around the world. Things will come to a head in February when Endemol-backed ABS-CBN talent show "Pinoy Dream Academy" faces the Fremantle-produced "Philippine Idol," which is now part of the GMA-7 stable. We should expect more of their international hit shows to enter local airwaves as the intense rivalry now reached the Philippine arena. * * * It seemed Pops Fernandez made her revelations to YES! Magazine to prove that she gave Martin all the chances in the world to save their marriage. Well, the rest is history. But Martin has a point in his desire to move on. Another painful attack, he says, but chuckled and remarked he has gotten used to it. He was hoping that he would soon be spared from all of it. Actually, this whole brouhaha would not have become "showbiz talk" again if the issue of the "jumping like monkeys" remark had not emerged. Did Pops overreact? Or has Martin failed to act properly?