After 11 years apart on television, Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino are set to reunite for a candid conversation about health, family, love and politics as the “Queen of All Media” joins the “King of Talk” for his birthday special on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on GMA Network.
During a press conference, Abunda said that the reunion allowed them to revisit their enduring friendship.
“After 11 years, we did over two hours of a spirited conversation. I arrived at the interview venue without notes, without anything. That is how it has always been with Kris and me. We can start talking about one thing and eventually go into anything and everything,” Abunda said.
The talk show host has interviewed Aquino through several significant chapters of her personal and professional life but said this one felt different.
“I think the exciting part is the maturity that we have today, born out of the successes and the failures, the pain and the joys that we both went through. It is different now, and I think that is what makes this conversation exciting,” he said.
One of the most personal subjects Aquino discussed was her ongoing health journey. Abunda said she spoke candidly about living with an autoimmune condition and the challenges of managing her health.
“She spoke about her health and said there are good days. I am just glad that she has gained weight, looks good and is being attended to by some of the best caregivers, doctors and nurses.”
The interview also addressed how Aquino has been managing her finances while away from regular television work.
“We talked about money because I think that is what people want to know, given how long she has been away and how she is able to sustain herself. We also talked about work and her endorsements. She is very happy and grateful, and she talked about the importance of trust. We also talked about work and how she continues to move forward despite everything she has been going through.”
The possibility of Aquino returning to television also came up during their conversation. According to Abunda, the television personality gave a straightforward answer.
“She said, ‘I will only go back to television with a king,’” Abunda recalled, referring to their long-standing friendship and professional relationship.
The conversation also explored Aquino’s views on love and her relationship with her family, with her son Bim joining the interview toward the end.
He said she spoke about her sons, Josh and Bimby, including Josh’s generosity and Bim’s presence throughout her health journey. One of the most moving moments, he recalled, came when Bimby spoke about his older brother and his commitment to looking after him.
“Bim said he would only marry a girl who could accept Kuya Josh because he knows that one day, when Mama is gone, he will take care of him. It was a touching moment, and it showed how much he loves his brother and how seriously he takes that responsibility.”
Politics was another topic, with Abunda asking Aquino whether she would consider entering public service at this stage of her life. According to the host, Aquino did not hesitate when asked about a possible government position.
“She said, ‘Yes, Boy, if I’m given the chance, I’d like to be secretary of health,’” Abunda said laughing.
Abunda said he has conducted most of Aquino’s major interviews over the years, covering her relationships, marriage and family, as well as significant events involving her late brother, former President Benigno Aquino III. Their latest conversation, however, reflects where they are now after years of personal changes and experiences.
The reunion also forms part of Abunda’s birthday celebration, which will feature other guests, including close friends and personalities who have been part of his life and career.
“Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” airs weekdays from 4:05 to 4:30 p.m. on GMA Network. The reunion with Aquino will be part of Abunda’s birthday week special, airing from Oct. 26 to 30.
