Why Piolo Pascual Considered Quitting Showbiz While Filming Starting Over Again

Piolo Pascual is one of the most iconic actors in Philippine showbiz, but even he has faced moments of doubt in his illustrious career. In his emotional sit-down with Toni Gonzaga on Toni Talks, the celebrated actor revealed the struggles he faced while filming the box-office hit Starting Over Again (2014), and why he almost walked away from the industry he had dominated for decades.

The Pressure of Stardom

By the time Starting Over Again came along, Piolo had already solidified his status as one of the country’s most sought-after leading men. However, the weight of being in the spotlight for so long had taken its toll. “It’s not easy to always be under public scrutiny,” Piolo admitted.

The actor shared that he felt emotionally drained and disconnected during this period, questioning whether he still had the passion and energy to continue performing at the level his fans expected of him.

A Challenging Role

In Starting Over Again, Piolo played Marco, a man grappling with heartbreak and unresolved feelings for his ex, portrayed by Toni Gonzaga. The film required him to dig deep emotionally, which proved both cathartic and exhausting.

“Playing Marco was like reliving my own struggles with relationships and heartbreak,” he revealed. “It hit too close to home.” The process forced him to confront personal issues he had long kept buried, adding to the emotional weight he was carrying at the time.

Balancing Personal and Professional Life

Piolo also opened up about the difficulties of balancing his career with his responsibilities as a father to his son, Iñigo. “I was at a point where I questioned if I was being a good dad while pursuing my career,” he said. The guilt of not always being present for his son made him reconsider whether showbiz was worth the sacrifices.

The Turning Point

Despite the challenges, Piolo found a renewed sense of purpose during the filming of Starting Over Again. The overwhelming support from his fans and the team behind the movie reminded him why he fell in love with acting in the first place.

The success of the film, which grossed over ₱400 million, became a turning point in his career. “I realized that my work isn’t just about me—it’s about touching lives and telling stories that resonate with people,” Piolo shared.

Looking Ahead

While he admitted that quitting crossed his mind, Piolo ultimately decided to stay. “I prayed hard and asked for guidance,” he said. “At the end of the day, I knew this is where I belong.”

Today, Piolo continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, taking on projects that challenge him as an actor while inspiring millions of fans. His story is a reminder that even the brightest stars face moments of doubt, but resilience and faith can help them shine even brighter.

Through Starting Over Again, Piolo not only delivered one of his most memorable performances but also rediscovered his passion for his craft, proving that even in the hardest times, there is always a reason to keep moving forward.