‘We weren’t hiding’: Richard Gutierrez, Barbie Imperial finally confirm relationship

 

Richard Gutierrez and Barbie Imperial have finally put an end to months of speculation, confirming that they are indeed in a relationship.

The longtime rumored couple shared the news with ABS-CBN reporter MJ Felipe as they prepare to work together for the first time in the upcoming action drama Blood vs. Duty. The series will also star Gerald Anderson and Bela Padilla and is set to air on ABS-CBN in 2026.

Richard expressed excitement about finally collaborating with Barbie on-screen, noting that the opportunity has been a long time coming. He shared that while they had often talked about working together, Blood vs. Duty made it a reality. He also described the experience as refreshing, especially since they’ve always chosen to live their lives away from social media and public attention.

Barbie, for her part, joked that working together means she no longer has to visit Richard on the set of Incognito, since they’ll now be spending more time together professionally.

The couple also addressed why they kept their relationship private for so long. Barbie clarified that they were never hiding—just intentionally choosing to keep their relationship out of the public eye. She explained that privacy helped protect what they had, believing that what people don’t know can’t be ruined.

Richard echoed the same sentiment, saying they both agreed early on to keep things low-key. For them, a private relationship felt more relaxed and genuine.

Blood vs. Duty is scheduled to premiere in 2026, marking the couple’s first on-screen partnership—and a new chapter both professionally and personally.