After more than two decades, beauty queen and actress Ruffa Gutierrez is making a triumphant return to GMA Network in the glitzy and gripping revenge drama “Beauty Empire,” which premieres July 7 on GMA.
Ruffa, who first graced GMA screens as a teenager in “That’s Entertainment,” was beaming with gratitude during the recent media launch. “I’m so happy to be back here in GMA after actually 21 or 22 years,” she said. “I think I’ve come full circle because I started my career with GMA. I was only 14 years old.
“It’s such an honor that Miss Annette, GMA and of course News and Public Affairs got me to be a leading lady in this project. Maraming, maraming salamat. It’s such a joy to work with everyone on
‘Beauty Empire’.”
Ruffa takes on the role of Velma Imperial, a powerful and enigmatic figure in the beauty industry who mentors social media-savvy CEO Shari De Jesus (Kyline Alcantara). Velma’s character becomes a key player in the unfolding conflict with Noreen Alfonso (Barbie Forteza), a rags-to-riches beauty mogul whose rise is fueled by vengeance, ambition and family secrets.
Reflecting on the show’s themes and her own experience in the beauty world, Ruffa shared: “More and more people are aware of taking care of themselves — hindi lang sa panlabas na anyo, kundi panloob din. For me, beauty is power, and beauty is whatever you want it to be. It’s really important that we give out kindness, generosity, and just be our authentic true self.”
“Beauty Empire” is a collaboration between GMA Network, Viu Philippines and CreaZion Studios. Directed by Mark Sicat Dela Cruz and created by Real Florido and Rona Co, the series offers a thrilling look into the high-stakes world of beauty, power and betrayal. Pivotal scenes were shot in South Korea, lending the drama a sleek, international flair.
Joining Ruffa, Barbie and Kyline in the ensemble cast are Sid Lucero, Sam Concepcion, Chai Fonacier and Gabby Padilla, with special appearances by Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz and Korean actor-singer Choi Bo-Min, making his Filipino production debut.
Barbie teased what viewers can expect: “Ang istorya po namin ay punung-puno ng puso at pagmamahal sa pamilya. With fashion and beauty at its core, we will tackle murder mystery, love for family, and revenge.”
Previously released on Viu last June 16, “Beauty Empire” hits Philippine primetime on GMA starting July 7, airing Monday to Thursday at 9:35 p.m. The series is also available globally via GMA Pinoy TV and on demand via Viu Philippines.
