Nic Chien learned of parents’ split via Instagram comment

MANILA, Philippines — Artist Nic Chien, the son of Lea Salonga and Robert Chien, revealed that he learned about his parents’ separation through a comment on Instagram.

During his guest appearance on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda," Nic reflected on Lea’s recent decision to publicly announce their separation.

“I was a little surprised. But at the same time, not really, because it had been a long time coming, and it was honestly about time that she talked about it. I’m very glad she did,” he said.

Nic also recounted how he found out about his parents’ separation.

“When I was 14, I had my own Instagram where I posted my art," he said.

"Some terrible fan... some ‘lovely person’ went to the comments and in all [capital letters the fan wrote], ‘Nicole, I’m so sorry that your parents are divorced. God bless your mom. I’m so sorry.’

“What the hell? I had no idea that they were split. I don’t know where they heard this from. I was bawling my eyes out, and my boyfriend at that time and one of my best friends were [asking], ‘What’s wrong with you?’ I was basically a child.”

He then sought clarification from his dad.

“I texted my dad, ‘What’s going on?’ [and he said], ‘I’m very sorry you found out like that. But yes, your mom and I are separated. We want you to know that it was very hard. The conversation was long and very difficult for us. And it’s not your fault,’” Nic said.

Lea publicly confirmed her separation from Robert in January.

The former couple tied the knot in Los Angeles in 2004.

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