Sam Milby 

MANILA -- “It does scare me sometimes,” actor Sam Milby admitted as he renewed his contract with ABS-CBN, sharing his concern about the uncertainties of life in showbiz.

Reflecting on nearly two decades in the industry, Milby acknowledged the fleeting nature of fame. “This is not a secure job… you have to accept that there’s always gonna be someone new, someone better looking, someone more talented,” he said.

Although he’s kept busy with projects like the upcoming series "Saving Grace," he confessed that the thought of not being in the limelight can feel unsettling, especially during quiet periods in his career.

Milby’s reflections came as he celebrated 19 years in the entertainment industry, a journey he began unexpectedly in 2005 when he entered the first season of Pinoy Big Brother. “I only came here sa Philippines for vacation… and I’m still here after 19 years,” he said.

From a casual visit to a flourishing career, the actor finds it “surreal” that he’s had such longevity in an industry where change is constant. Currently, he stars in "Saving Grace," a Filipino adaptation of a Japanese series, and has a film set to release next year -- both of which he says give him a “safety net” as he contemplates his future.

Milby also shared insights into what he’s learned over the years, particularly his gratitude for beginning his career in a pre-social media era. “I think a lot of learning that I’ve had, nagpapasalamat ako hindi ako nag-start nung social media. Because I think 'yung mga kabataan ngayon they find their identity in social media, the comments, you kinda learn to block out. When you’re there, you’re a public figure, parang people wanna bring you down, and you kind of have to learn to not be affected. I think that’s one thing but to also really love your craft,” he noted, adding that it’s crucial for public figures to learn how to block out negativity.

When asked about some of the harshest comments he’s received, Milby touched on the impact of rumors and gossip in showbiz. 

“There’s so many things that actually go around that people actually believe na walang katotohanan and it’s kind of sad because they believe something kahit walang pruweba. Because it’s being passed around, because mahilig tayo sa chismis. It’s something that makes you feel good na ‘totoo ba?’ And you want to be drawn in sa kwento but then 'pag lumabas 'yung totoo, ‘oh its not that exciting’,” he said, noting that sensational stories often spread easily, even without proof, while the truth tends to be less compelling.

As new actors rise in the industry, Milby admits that the fast pace of showbiz is something he’s learned to accept. “It’s a young business, mas lalo dito sa Pilipinas,” he observed. 

Despite his worries, the contract renewal with ABS-CBN has given him renewed confidence and a sense of stability. “I do have that comfort again, knowing that I’m still being supported. I’m still being given blessings and they trust me and give me projects for the next few years,” he said.