Richard Gutierrez 'reinvented, repackaged'

MANILA, Philippines - There comes a time in the life of an actor when he feels the need to change. Richard Gutierrez (photo) is no exception. At 28, he’s raring to play more challenging roles onscreen, be it television or movies. This “need” Chard’s producers are aware of and so they’re preparing projects that will, in the actor’s words, “challenge me.”

Daring roles, offbeat, vida-contravida­, heavy drama, all-out hard action, Chard is ready to tackle. Baring in terms of skin exposure? Chard has an open mind, although all these years he has maintained a wholesome image, realizing he has many young fans.

Chard recalls that years back, director Peque Gallaga wanted to cast him in an action-drama to be shot in Bacolod. He was excited to do it, but for one reason or the other, the film didn’t push through.

His father, Eddie Gutierrez, was matinee idol in the ’60s and ’70s, but he later “graduated” to dramatic and action roles, giving him awards. Chard hopes to win acting awards in the years to come.

Actually, Richard is proud of his TV and movie credits.

The likes of Mulawin, Sugo, Kamandag, Full House, Asero, Captain barbell, Zorro on GMA, which made him Primetime King.

In the movies, Chard got good reviews in The Promise opposite Angel Locsin, inspired by Wuthering Heights. His role in Mano Po 2 was short but memorable, the ill-fated son of Lorna Tolentino. Another well-received film was the horror-thriller Sigaw, made into a Hollywood movie re-titled The Echo.

“Actually, I enjoyed all my movies, including the two with KC (Concepcion), one with Marian (Rivera), a trilogy with Lovi (Poe), Rhian (Ramos), Eugene (Domingo), Solenn (Heussaff). I hope to work again with Angel, KC, Rhian, Lovi and many other leading ladies,” Chard said. “But in out-of-the-box roles. I want to get away from my comfort zone.”

But while the actor is eager to be “reinvented” and “repackaged,” Chard wants to remain as host of Survivor Philippines, which he does so well. Also, he hopes to continue with his environmental programs for GMA, winning awards here and abroad.

Chard the actor will surely change, but his commitment to keep the Philippines clean and green remains constant. He is, after all, an environmental hero.