Showbiz Tsismis: Marian Rivera’s extra challenge

Everyone was surprised when GMA announced that Marian Rivera would host the revival of its late 90s hit reality show Extra Challenge. Known more as an actress rather than a TV host, Rivera admitted she was reluctant to accept the assignment at first, but her love for extreme adventure and the outdoors made her agree to do the show.

Extra Challenge is known for its punishing “challenges”. Aren’t you worried?

Not at all; OK, maybe a little. But I am the type of person who loves extreme adventures, and the type who would be willing to try anything once so I decided to accept the project. Besides, it’s not really me who will do the challenges; I get to try some of them, but I will mainly only assist the show’s challengers.

Heard there was a hefty pay packet included in the contract?

I heard, too (laughs); but it wasn’t about that. The money is only secondary to how you feel about the project. If it’s something you enjoy, that would make the compensation a mere bonus. Why would anyone accept something that feels like a burden? Work is already tough, why have the extra burden?

You recently make a guest appearance in Richard Gutierrez’s adventure show. And you clicked. How is it working with Richard?

Magaan (light). I like working with him because he is a friend, and he is also very daring when it comes to challenges. We’ve worked together in a movie before, so there are no more awkward moments.

How different will this be to the show that had a successful run until about 2006?

The tasks are more challenging, there are new twists to how the challenges are done, and there are new segments. It will be the same “Extra Challenge” feel, but it’s a completely new show.

What’s one “extra challenge” in real life that you had to deal with?

I have had to deal with so many, especially made-up accusations that are meant to put me in a bad light. I’m one tough person so I fight back, protect myself and my territory — and so many times people think I am the troublemaker when I am only defending myself. But I’ve mellowed now; learned to choose my battles.

How did it happen?

It comes with age, and with the help of Dong (actor Dingdong Dantes, her boyfriend).