Robbie Jaworski's journey begins

November 26 ------ When Robbie Jaworski officially joined Star Magic, it wasn't simply a signing of contracts — it was the culmination of a long-standing goal for ABS-CBN executives, who had their sights set on this handsome young man of sterling pedigree. As the son of basketball player-turned-politician Pasig City Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski and equestrian Olympian and former actress Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski — and thereby the grandson of hardcourt icon and former senator Robert "Big J" Jaworski and high society's Peping and Tingting Cojuangco — Robbie carries a legacy of greatness and class.

To be clear, though, it wasn't just Robbie's lineage that caught the attention of ABS-CBN's star makers. His character — marked by humility, diligence, and charm — made him an ultimate catch they couldn't pass up. "What attracted me most was when you said [you were] 'masipag at mapagmahal [hardworking and loving],'" ABS-CBN COO for Broadcast Cory Vidanes said during the signing event at the network's headquarters in Quezon City. "Those are the values and traits we hope for in our artists. I thought, talagang bagay ka sa amin [you really fit in with us]. I hope you enjoy the journey, and I know you'll inspire and bring joy as we continue to serve the Filipino people."

In agreement, director Lauren Dyogi, head of TV Production and Star Magic, remarked on how naturally Robbie fit into the network's values. "He's very humble. I've never felt any arrogance from him despite his background, and that's why he connects with people so easily," Direk Lauren said, reflecting the network's confidence in Robbie's ability to capture audiences' hearts. But much as the studio was extremely eager to get Robbie into Star Magic, they patiently waited for the Ateneo de Manila University Management graduate — who initially worked as a hotelier before taking a post in the family business — to decide on shifting industries.

According to Girlie Rodis, his mom's long-time manager and effectively his in this new life chapter, ABS-CBN and Star Magic took a patient and deliberate approach to ensure Robbie's readiness for showbiz. "I'm very happy that they agreed to co-manage Robbie because they truly have the best platform for him," said the veteran agent, fondly called Tita GF in showbiz circles. "They didn't rush him then, nor are they rushing him now. They're allowing him to grow organically while his family has been incredibly supportive of his journey." Tita GF couldn't be more than right on both points, for besides the presence of the network bigwigs, the show of support from Robbie's family was overwhelming, with his parents and brother Rafael proudly attending the event. They even participated in a surprise video Star Magic prepared for their newest talent.

In it, dad Dodot expressed how they felt as Robbie embarked on his new career: "We've been so proud of you. I know you will go places and share your talent with the world." Mom Mikee promised that she has his back, as she prayed and committed, "May God bless your every endeavor. Throughout everything you do, we're here for you. We love you." As for Robbie, he expressed that while he is grateful to his family and undeniably inspired by them, he is equally determined to chart his own path. "My famous relatives set themselves apart in their own way, but I try not to compare myself to them," he explained when asked about the weight of his family's legacy. "They've provided great examples for me, and I can choose to follow them or go a separate way. Right now, I'm just excited to explore and discover myself more because I'm not my father, I'm not my lolo I'm me."

Source: manilatimes.net