Paolo Bediones resumes his showbiz career under new management two years following an unplanned hiatus
Second chances are rare in show business. But there are a few lucky exceptions, among them Paolo Bediones. The seasoned TV host, who went on a two-year hiatus following a controversy, has been written off by many.
Lo and behold, he is now on the comeback trail having signed a five-year management contract with Viva Artist Agency (VAA).
In our interview, Paolo related he was ready for a comeback all this time, only that he was hesitant to make a move; afraid no network or management agency would take him on. Obviously, he was wrong. “The Viva story is a funny one,” he shared. “Actually they called to inquire for an event and I don’t have any idea that it was Viva. Then the person who was inquiring suddenly asked me if someone’s handling my career so I said ‘No one.’ I have no idea na it was Jay (Montelibano of Viva) pala.”
The 43-year-old added, “I actually didn’t see it coming (the offer) but the renewed energy of having someone believe in you again, that is really overwhelming, and I don’t want to let them down.”
Paolo is excited over the projects Viva has lined up for him.
He believes the partnership is advantageous too as regards his other pet projects.
“Apart from handling my career as an artist, Viva will also be my partner in my hosting and personality development workshops, motivational seminars, cyber bullying counseling, public speaking and presentation skills especially to corporate groups,” he shared, adding he also looks forward to do SME mentorship after he earns his Masters Degree in Entrepreneurship from AIM next year.
The tall and hunky TV host is slated to appear at HistoryCon 2017 tomorrow, which he described as a “great debut project.”
He, who landed his “big break” hosting the Bb. Pilipinas pageant in 1998, also hopes to host a national beauty pageant anew.
Meanwhile, Paolo has produced “Good Vibes With Paolo,” a musical show airing on Cignal Entertainment.
Paolo shared the show is for young people and will feature bands and OPM music.
After all the controversies, Paolo said he is re-starting on a clean slate.
Dismissing notion that VAA will “repackage” him as an artist, Paolo said he will be the same guy he was albeit “more trendy.”
“I don’t think the re-packaging necessary as I think there was nothing wrong with me naman in the first place,” he said.
Paolo’s decision to make a comeback hinged on him believing showbiz is where he belongs – contrary to spec- ulations he is simply out for redemption.
“I want to do this, I love being here. Kasi what happened in the past has nothing to do with who I am as an artist, with who I am as a talent, who I am as a professional,” Paolo noted.
Did he ever ask himself if he is still needed? If he is still relevant? Paolo replied with a curt, “No.” “Here’s the thing: If you think you are not relevant anymore, make yourself relevant.” he added.
“I know I’m still good. I’ve been doing this for two decades, it’s in my system and I know what I can do. I can deliver so, I told myself ‘I can’t leave this.’”
The TV host believes he is “old but still reliable.”
“Right now I’m in the spirit of positivity. I want to help so many people in so many ways. That’s me now and I’ve been really blessed.”
Despite his experiences with it, Paolo is not shying away from social media.
“It was the one who oppressed me before but I still have to embrace it,” he said. “I need it now to make my advocacies successful, to make my career successful.”
For Paolo, social media is not inherently good or bad. It all depends on how people use it.
“Some people used it a negative way and it affected people in a negative manner,” he said.
Paolo recently took to social media and admitted having psoriasis – a disorder that results in one having dry, scaly skin. In an Instagram post, he shared that he has been dealing with it for more than half his life. He came out to educate people that those who have psoriasis should not be feared.
“When I posted it, I have no idea it would go viral,” he said. “When it did, I realize how much social media could do for a lot of people and it’s good for me because I received a lot of support. So from there, I know that somehow social media is also a good platform to share our experience and be an inspiration to others.” (With report from Jojo P. Panaligan)