PAULO AVELINO’S SHOCKING STATEMENT SPARKS FIRESTORM: “KIM CHIU SHOULD FOLLOW NADINE LUSTRE’S BOLD STEPS” — INDUSTRY, FANS REACT

By Golda Farrell | May 27, 2025 | Manila, Philippines

What began as a routine press junket for a primetime teleserye quickly exploded into one of the most controversial entertainment stories of the year, when actor Paulo Avelino made a blunt statement that left fans, media, and the entertainment industry stunned — and the internet ablaze.

During a press conference on May 26, 2025, in Quezon City for his upcoming ABS-CBN teleserye, Paulo was asked a relatively simple question: “Which local actress today do you think is redefining herself successfully?” His answer, however, was anything but simple.

“If I’m being honest, I think Kim [Chiu] should take a few lessons from Nadine [Lustre],” Paulo responded candidly. “She’s fearless, unapologetic, and she owns her choices—no matter how controversial. That’s the kind of transformation the industry needs right now.”

The room fell into stunned silence, and within minutes, clips of the moment flooded social media platforms, especially TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), triggering a digital firestorm that continues to rage.

DIVIDED INTERNET: CRITICISM VS. APPLAUSE

Online reaction was swift and polarized. Fans of Kim Chiu, who turned 35 this year, were quick to defend the actress, accusing Paulo of being “insensitive,” “tone-deaf,” and “disloyal,” especially given their on-screen chemistry in the well-received teleserye Linlang.

“That’s betrayal, plain and simple,” wrote one user on X. “You don’t lift one woman up by tearing another down.”

Kim’s supporters pointed out that she’s had a consistent career, been a fan favorite for years, and remains one of the most bankable stars in Philippine television.

However, Nadine Lustre’s fanbase had a very different take.

“Paulo said what no one else dared to say,” one fan wrote. “Nadine has evolved—she’s living life on her own terms, doing meaningful films, and speaking up on real issues. Kim should take notes.”

Paulo’s choice of words — particularly “take a few lessons” — was interpreted by many as a challenge to Kim’s long-standing image as the bubbly, safe, “girl-next-door” actress.

CONTEXT MATTERS: KIM’S OWN STRUGGLES

Paulo’s remarks come at a particularly sensitive time for Kim Chiu. In a recent emotional interview with GMA, Kim opened up about her doubts, insecurities, and fear of becoming irrelevant in an industry that demands constant reinvention.

“Am I still relevant? Do people still want to see me?” Kim asked in the interview. “Sometimes I feel like I’m stuck playing the same girl over and over again.”

Insiders close to the actress have revealed that Kim is currently in a period of reflection, especially after her high-profile breakup last year and a reported career plateau. Paulo’s comment, however unintentional, may have struck a nerve that was already raw.

SILENCE AND SUBTWEETS: KIM & NADINE REACT WITHOUT WORDS

As of this writing, neither Kim Chiu nor Nadine Lustre has issued a direct public response. However, both took to Instagram with cryptic posts that only added fuel to the fire.

Kim posted a black-and-white selfie with the caption:
“Growth is silent. But some people are just loud.”

Meanwhile, Nadine uploaded a scenic sunset photo from Siargao with the caption:
“Stay true, even when they’re watching.”

Fans were quick to interpret both posts as subtle reactions to the controversy, sparking intense speculation and deeper fanbase rivalry.

SHOWBIZ INSIDERS WEIGH IN

Reactions from within the entertainment industry have been mixed but largely cautious.

Veteran columnist Lolit Solis shared in her radio commentary, “Maybe Paulo wants to challenge Kim in a good way. He didn’t mean to offend. But it’s hard, because we don’t know the full context.”

Talent manager Ogie Diaz, in his weekly vlog, remarked:
“Kim deserves encouragement, not subtle digs. But I also get what Paulo is trying to say — the industry is evolving. Artists must evolve, too. But there’s a way to say that without stirring drama.”

Meanwhile, some production insiders suggest that Paulo’s comment wasn’t meant as shade — rather, it reflected his genuine desire to see his co-stars embrace reinvention.

PAULO’S CAMP SPEAKS OUT

After nearly 24 hours of mounting backlash and speculation, Paulo’s team finally broke their silence with a brief but firm statement:

“Mr. Avelino stands by his comment. He believes in growth, honesty, and constructive reflection. No shade was intended.”

Still, the damage — or impact — has already been done. Whether meant to provoke or inspire, Paulo’s statement has reignited debates around image, authenticity, and the pressures placed on women in Philippine showbiz to constantly evolve.

A WAKE-UP CALL OR AN UNNECESSARY DIG?

Fans and observers are now asking: was Paulo out of line, or did he simply voice what others are afraid to say?

For years, Kim Chiu has been a consistent presence on television, delivering hits and maintaining her status as a household name. But some critics have argued that she has yet to take the kinds of risks that propelled Nadine Lustre into more artistic, socially conscious territory — such as Never Not Love You or her recent mental health advocacies.

Others argue that there is no one “right” path in showbiz, and that Paulo’s remark unfairly pits two accomplished women against each other.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR KIM? A POSSIBLE TURNING POINT

Sources close to Kim Chiu reveal that she is “deeply affected” by the controversy but has chosen to channel her emotions into something positive. Talks are currently underway for her to lead a gritty, genre-bending series for an international streaming platform — a major departure from her usual roles.

“Kim is more motivated than ever,” one insider shared. “She’s exploring complex roles that challenge her, and she’s determined to show she can be more than what people expect.”

THE FINAL WORD? NOT YET.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Paulo Avelino’s comment has sparked a much-needed — if uncomfortable — conversation about growth, reinvention, and the often-unfair expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry.

Whether Kim Chiu rises from this moment with a powerful transformation, or chooses to respond in her own quiet, graceful way, one thing is certain: the public is watching.

And perhaps that’s what Paulo meant all along — to shake the table, and see who rises.