Sarah Lahbati’s career was blossoming until she became involved in a legal tussle with GMA, where she has an exclusive contract. Her allegation against one of the network’s top executives proved detrimental to her career. Now, she’s aiming for a comeback.
Is it true that your problems with GMA are now over?
Thankfully, yes. It was a really rough period of my life. I felt I was fighting for what was right, but I also realised that I could have done it in a better way. Things do get sorted out when you talk. I am glad GMA was also open to mediation, so we were able to talk things out.
During the time that you were away, when you went back home to avoid the heat, what was going through your mind?
There were a lot of things going through my mind; I must admit I wasn’t thinking clearly. I was thinking with my emotions which had a lot of angst to be honest. I was of course thinking of what I’d done, and what I was going to lose. I was prepared, because in my heart I knew I had rights to fight for.
What made you decide to go for mediation?
A lot of things. I love the work that I do and I feel I can do more. I know there are many opportunities out there; but in the meantime I have to fulfil my obligations with GMA. It’s the right thing to do, and when you focus on that, you will be able to do anything.
Who approached who?
I think it was a mutual decision. GMA is a reasonable employer, things just got blown out of proportion. But Tita Anabelle (Rama, a talent manager and mother of Sarah’s boyfriend, Richard Gutierrez) was helping me out open the channels. I just want to say thank you again to GMA for being open. I have said some things before that were hurtful, but like parents, they welcomed me back.
What is the network’s plan for you now?
They are working on a few concepts for a series, and possibly a movie. I’m excited to work again. I’ve always said becoming an actress was my dream. I lived that for a bit and walked away. Now that I have the opportunity again, I will not let go until I succeed.
How about rumours saying you had a baby? Is that true or not?
I’ve just come back. Cut me some slack. (Laughs) No comment at this time.
