Celia Rodriguez Stirs Controversy: “Nora Aunor Is the Only True Superstar—Not Vilma Santos”

Veteran actress Celia Rodriguez has once again proven that she is never one to shy away from controversy. In a recent interview with the “King of Talk” Boy Abunda, the iconic screen villain made a bold and polarizing statement that has reignited a decades-old debate in the Philippine entertainment industry: Who truly deserves the title of “Superstar”?

With the poise and bluntness that she is known for, Rodriguez firmly declared that Nora Aunor, and not Vilma Santos, is the only artist worthy of being called the Superstar of Philippine cinema. “Nora Aunor is the real Superstar,” she stated unequivocally. “She has earned that title with her incredible talent and contributions to the industry. I can’t say the same for Vilma.”

This assertion, as expected, sent shockwaves across social media and entertainment circles, sparking a fresh round of heated discussions among fans of the two legendary actresses. The rivalry between Vilma Santos—dubbed the “Star for All Seasons”—and Nora Aunor—known as the “Superstar”—has long been one of the most iconic in the history of Philippine showbiz. But with Rodriguez’s comments, old wounds were reopened, and loyalties were once again tested.

Celia’s Personal Admiration for Nora

When asked during the interview which actresses she admired the most, Celia did not hesitate. “I salute the National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Nora Aunor,” she said. “Vilma is my idol in many ways, but when it comes to acting, Nora is unmatched. She’s on another level.”

Rodriguez elaborated on what sets Nora apart from her contemporaries. “Nora’s acting has more depth,” she explained. “She is the only artist I’ve ever seen whose eyes and shoulders can act—even when her back is turned. There’s a soulfulness in her performance that cannot be taught. It’s instinctive, it’s raw, and it’s real.”

Fans React: Vilmanians vs. Noranians

The passionate fanbases of both stars were quick to respond. Noranians, always fiercely loyal, applauded Celia Rodriguez for “speaking the truth” and giving credit where it is due. They cited Nora Aunor’s unforgettable performances in landmark films like Himala, Bona, and The Flor Contemplacion Story as proof of her status as the country’s greatest actress.

“Nora’s body of work transcends entertainment,” one fan wrote online. “Her films are social commentaries, reflections of Filipino life. No one else has impacted our culture the way she has.”

Meanwhile, Vilmanians rushed to defend their idol. They pointed out that Vilma Santos has had an equally stellar career—not only in acting but also in public service and business. With hit films like Relasyon, Dolzura Cortez Story, and Dekada ’70, as well as a successful political career as governor and congresswoman, many believe that Vilma’s accomplishments make her equally, if not more, deserving of the Superstar title.

“Vilma is a complete package,” one fan argued. “She reinvented herself time and again. She’s not just a star—she’s a role model.”

A Career of Elegance and Defiance

Celia Rodriguez herself is no stranger to the spotlight. With a career spanning decades, she has built a reputation as one of the Philippines’ most versatile and fearless actresses. Best known for her villainous roles in both television and film, she has always carried an air of sophistication, both on and off the screen.

During the interview, she recalled her days as a fashion model, proudly sharing that she once worked with famed Italian designer Emilio Pucci. “Even before I entered showbiz, I was already known in fashion circles,” she said. “That gave me the confidence to be who I am in this industry.”

She also shared that despite her success, there were directors who didn’t want to work with her. “I was never bothered,” she said. “Because at the end of the day, I was working. I was surviving. I was relevant.”

A Salute to the Queens

Rodriguez also took a moment to pay tribute to some of the actresses she considers the most beautiful and talented she’s worked with. She named Gloria Romero, Barbara Perez, Charito Solis, and Nida Blanca as the epitome of grace and excellence in Philippine cinema.

She also emphasized her pride in being considered the “queen of gays,” saying, “I am not insulted by that title. It is a compliment. The LGBTQ+ community has always supported me, and I love them for that.”

As for her own moniker, “Miss Celia Rodriguez,” she said that only she and the late Rita Gomez have the right to use “Miss” in their screen names. “I earned it. I worked hard for it. That title is mine.”

A Timeless Rivalry

The rivalry between Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos is one that has stood the test of time. Both actresses have made unparalleled contributions to the Philippine entertainment industry, and both have passionate fan bases that continue to defend their legacies.

While Celia Rodriguez’s recent statements have certainly added fuel to the fire, they have also reminded the public of how deeply ingrained both stars are in the cultural consciousness of the Filipino people. Whether one agrees with her or not, there’s no denying that Celia has once again sparked a conversation that goes beyond showbiz—it touches on artistry, identity, and national pride.

The Final Word?

Perhaps there is no definitive answer to who the true Superstar of Philippine cinema is. Perhaps both women, in their own unique ways, have earned the right to be celebrated. But as long as voices like Celia Rodriguez’s keep the conversation alive, one thing is certain: the legacies of Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos will never fade.

As fans continue to debate and defend, maybe it’s time to acknowledge that the industry is richer for having had both icons shape it—each in her own indelible way.