Talent manager and entrepreneur Mannix Carancho came to the defense of one of his biggest artists, Sofia “Fyang” Smith. He firmly stated that the “Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11” Big Winner remains the same humble, respectful and hardworking young woman he first met despite her rapid rise to fame.
Speaking during a press conference where he celebrated his birthday and introduced the roster of artists under Mannix Management, Carancho shared how Smith’s journey with the agency began.
According to Carancho, Smith’s entry into the agency happened naturally after she frequently visited the company’s talent house, where aspiring creators produce online content while undergoing training.
He explained that the talent house serves as both a residence and training center for artists, where they are given workshops, mentorship and opportunities to develop their skills.
Before Smith won “Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11,” Carancho said he already recognized her potential. “I knew this young girl would go very far.”
He added that Smith possessed an innate charisma that made her stand out from the beginning. “I met Fyang a long time ago. Even then, she already had great potential. While I may have helped her along the way, there’s no denying that she has natural charisma and talent.”
As Smith’s popularity continues to grow, Carancho said he has also seen an increase in criticism directed at the actress, particularly claims that fame has changed her personality. He dismissed those allegations, saying many people simply misunderstand her.
“Maybe because she’s not yet close to many people, they think she’s being unfriendly. But once you get to know her, you won’t have anything negative to say about the way she treats people.
“She’s a very kind young woman. She’s well-mannered, talented and gets along well with everyone. Even now, she’s still the same person she was before. She’s very respectful.”
Asked whether fame had affected Smith, Carancho said he believes the opposite has happened.
“If anything, she’s become even more focused because she’s taking her work more seriously. She’s simply misunderstood.”
Describing the actress away from the public eye, Carancho said Smith’s cheerful personality is matched by her dedication to her craft.
“Fyang is a kind-hearted girl. She’s playful and cheerful, but behind that, she’s very dedicated to her work. Performing and making people happy is truly her passion. As for me, I’m simply here to guide her.”
One milestone Carancho considers as a talent manager was Smith’s decision to continue working with him even after signing with Star Magic.
“The good thing about Fyang is that even after becoming successful, she never let go. Even after signing with Star Magic, she made sure I would continue to co-manage her,” he said.
Carancho also stressed that while he advises Smith on career and personal matters, he allows her to make her own decisions, including those involving her private life.
“I simply guide her, but the decision is always hers. I just give advice, like telling her to get to know a person first and carefully think about whatever decision she plans to make,” he said, referring to questions about her rumored romance with fellow “PBB Gen 11” housemate JM Ibarra.
Beyond Smith, Carancho continues to oversee a growing roster of digital creators, television personalities and social media influencers under Mannix Management.
During the press conference, he introduced several of the agency’s talents, including Riri Navarro, Angela Lim, Sean Kelly Panganiban, JC Basal, Chona Vibes and Mamie Bhiee, as well as creative director Amanda Salas.
The agency also manages popular online pairings such as ZaiLane (Zaide Diaz and Elaine Maniquiz), Koshelleine (Kosuke Umemoto and Mary Julian Cabaltera), AceNic (Ace Remeter and Nica Navarro), Yanella (Yance Figueroa and Angela Broma), KurFect (Kurt Ausan and Mark Denmiel Esguerra), KeithLaine (Keith Bryan Castel and Yuniko Cabaltera), KenLi (Kenneth Danks and Miles Lian Ramirez), and KenPat (Luke Kendrix Torres and Patrick Valle).
