Alden Richards, the ‘family man’

Alden Richards has always been a ‘lola’s boy’–his grandmother after all stood in for his mother when the latter passed away in 2008

In show business, Alden Richards is well loved by fans and colleagues for his courteousness, thoughtfulness, and for having good strong morals—values that were zeroed into when he and Maine Mendoza became showbiz’ “phenomenal love team” via Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye gold mine.

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Whose heart did not melt when he said he was willing to wait for the right time—the tamang panahon—to be worthy of meeting Yaya Dub in person during the first few months of their onscreen courtship? And how many grandmothers also wished they had an Alden as a grandson or would-be grandson for his high regard and respect for elders?

Away from the limelight, you will fall in love with Alden more. As it turns out, Richard Faulkerson Jr.—his real name—is even more protective and caring for his family as attested to by his beloved maternal grandmother Linda Reyes and sister Riza.

Lola Linda and Alden’s younger sister joined the 24-year-old breakout star at the launch of his new brand endorsement for decongestant and analgesic brand Neozep. They are somewhat celebrities nowadays as well as the “women” featured in the product’s new TVC.

“Kung ano po siya sa TV—makulit, palatawa—ganun din po siya pag kasama namin. Aside from that, very protective po siya. Gusto po niya matapos ko muna yung pag-aaral bago po ako pumasok sa ibang bagay [especially relationship],” Richard’s 20-year old sister attested.

Proud and beaming, 74-year-old Lola Linda boasted just how pampered she is by her apo. “Si Alden po masyong maalalahanin. Alam niyang may edad na ako kaya kahit nasa malayo siya, primero siyang tumatawag, ‘O Lola, uminom ka na ba ng gamot mo? Kamusta ka na?’ Pag nakita niyang maputi na ang buhok ko, ‘O lola punta ka sa parlor.’ Pag nakita niya yung damit ko na luma na, ‘Lola bumili ka ng bagong damit.’”

Lola Linda’s tidbits about her grandson came as no surprise to the members of the press who attended the launch as the actor had always said in his interviews that he is a “lola’s boy.” His grandmother after all stood in for his mother when the latter passed away in 2008 due to pneumonia.

Since then, Alden became closer to Lola Linda, bonding with her by watching movies together, and helping her out in the kitchen.

He also vowed to spend as much time as he can with his dad, older brother RD, Riza and younger sister Angel, so much so that during his rare breaks from showbiz commitments, he would rather be home with his family rather than take a well-deserved vacation.

“Ayaw kong mawalay sa family ko for long time. I want to be updated [about them], gusto ko silang nakikita everyday,” Alden unabashedly said.

His close affinity and genuine care for his family—uncommon for millennials like him who are focused on success, fame, and fortune—are just some of the traits that make Alden a true family man, even at this young stage of his life.

Ever obedient, he even recalled how he simply followed his late mother’s wishes to join showbiz.

“Hindi ko po talaga gusto maging artista. I wanted to become a pilot kaya lang ‘di kayang makabayad ng tuition fee, so I ended up taking Business Management,” said 2015’s biggest male star.

“Really, I’m doing all this because of my mom—up to this point,” the Fil-American actor continued. He was quick to add, however, that he is extremely grateful to be where he is today, even if his demanding schedule hardly leaves much time for family.

“In a person’s life, how many times will an opportunity to show your talent, and inspire people, and make a living out of it come?” he humbly acknowledged.

Indeed, he is today the many labels he has been given in the industry: “Pambansang Bae,” “Endorsement King,” and “Primetime Prince” among others.

“I’m not a fan of titles,” Alden gently revealed. “Kung meron man pong tumawag sa akin ng ganun salamat po but I’m not really entertaining the thought of having a title in this industry. I’m just Alden Richards. Whatever I get, I take it, I work hard for it. I’m just really passionate in everything that I do in show business.”

Ultimately, Alden Richards, ever the family man, is simply fulfilled to see that his family now lives a kind of life he has always hoped they would have.

“I’m happy to see them comfortable. I’m working for them especially because they are my priority for now. Makita ko lang silang OK, walang sakit, and in good shape, then I feel comfortable too.”