Veteran entertainer and UMD star Jim Salas openly admitted his disappointment over the past controversy involving his son, actor Paul Salas, and the latter’s former girlfriend, actress Barbie Imperial.
During an appearance on GTV’s ‘Lutong Bahay’, hosted by Mikee Quintos and Chef Ylyt, Salas shared his thoughts on the matter.
Host Mikee Quintos asked Jim about his feelings regarding the publicized issues between Paul and Barbie, which were highly publicized during their breakup in 2018.
“Oo naman,” Jim said when asked if he harbored any ill feelings. “Aaminin ko talagang sumama ang loob ko [kay Barbie]. Siyempre, bilang magulang, malalaman mo ‘yung balita na ganon, para sa amin, hindi siya fair.”
Jim revealed that he considered Barbie as part of their family during her relationship with Paul. “Tinuring ko siya na parang anak na rin. Kasi ako, basta mahal ng anak ko, mahal ko na rin,” he explained, adding that he felt hurt by how their family was portrayed after the controversy. “Parang kami pa ‘yung pinalabas na ganoon, so parang na-hurt ako,” he added.
Paul and Barbie ended their relationship in 2018, citing a “toxic” dynamic as the primary reason for their split. The breakup was surrounded by controversy and negative headlines that Paul later addressed in a 2024 interview with ‘Fast Talk with Boy Abunda’.
“Actually, aaminin ko po, ngayon lang po nawala yung pagiging bitter ko sa kanya,” Paul shared. He also denied certain rumors that surfaced during the breakup. “Hindi ko matanggap, Tito Boy, na ilabas yung mga ganung news about me na matagal ko nang sinasabi na hindi naman talaga totoo.”
Now in a happy relationship with Kapuso actress Mikee Quintos, Paul has turned over a new leaf. The couple is set to star in their first romantic-comedy film, slated for release in 2025.
Jim Salas, while acknowledging his past disappointment, has moved on and continues to support his son’s journey in both his career and personal life. “At the end of the day, mahal ko ang anak ko. Ang mahalaga, masaya siya ngayon,” Jim said.
Jim Salas, father of actor Paul Salas, recently made headlines after expressing his disappointment over the ongoing issue involving his son and actress Barbie Imperial. The situation, which has been the subject of much speculation and gossip, has reportedly caused tension between the two young stars. Jim, in a candid interview, shared his thoughts on the matter, revealing his concerns as a parent and his hopes for a resolution. His comments have sparked a renewed interest in the issue, with fans and netizens weighing in on the controversy.
The issue between Paul Salas and Barbie Imperial first came to light after rumors of a falling out between the two began circulating on social media. While neither party has publicly disclosed the exact nature of their disagreement, sources close to the situation suggest that it may stem from personal differences or misunderstandings. Jim Salas, in his interview, emphasized that he was speaking out not to fan the flames but to address the matter as a father who cares deeply about his son’s well-being. He expressed his disappointment over how the situation has unfolded, describing it as unnecessary and unfortunate.
Jim’s decision to speak up has shed light on the challenges that come with being a parent to a public figure. He acknowledged that Paul, as an actor, is no stranger to scrutiny and gossip, but this particular issue has been especially difficult for their family. Jim revealed that he has always encouraged his son to handle conflicts with maturity and grace, and he hopes that both Paul and Barbie can find a way to resolve their differences amicably. “As a parent, it’s hard to see your child go through something like this,” he shared. “But I believe in Paul’s ability to rise above it and stay focused on his career and personal growth.”
The situation has also sparked discussions about the pressures faced by young celebrities in the entertainment industry. Both Paul Salas and Barbie Imperial are rising stars with promising careers, but their personal lives often become the subject of public scrutiny. Jim Salas’ comments have highlighted the need for empathy and understanding, reminding fans and critics alike that celebrities, despite their fame, are human beings who experience challenges and emotions just like everyone else. He urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors and to give the parties involved the space they need to address the issue privately.
For his part, Paul Salas has remained relatively quiet about the matter, choosing to focus on his work and avoid engaging in online discussions. His restraint has earned him praise from fans, who admire his professionalism and commitment to maintaining a positive image. However, Jim’s recent statements have brought the issue back into the spotlight, prompting many to wonder if Paul will eventually break his silence or if he prefers to keep the matter out of the public eye.
Barbie Imperial, on the other hand, has also been cautious in her approach to the controversy. While she has not directly addressed the issue, her social media posts suggest that she is focused on her career and personal growth. Like Paul, Barbie has chosen to prioritize her work, keeping her private life away from the limelight. This approach has resonated with her supporters, who appreciate her determination to rise above the noise and stay true to herself.
The involvement of Jim Salas in the issue has added a new layer of complexity to the situation. As a parent, his primary concern is undoubtedly his son’s happiness and well-being. However, his decision to speak out has also drawn attention to the broader dynamics of celebrity relationships and the role that families play in navigating the challenges of fame. Jim’s candidness has been both praised and criticized, with some applauding his honesty and others questioning whether his comments will help or hinder the resolution of the issue.
Despite the controversy, both Paul Salas and Barbie Imperial continue to enjoy strong support from their respective fan bases. Many fans have taken to social media to express their hope that the two actors can move past their differences and focus on their careers. Some have even called for a reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and understanding in resolving conflicts. Others, however, believe that it is ultimately up to Paul and Barbie to decide how they want to handle the situation, and that their privacy should be respected.
The issue has also sparked conversations about the role of social media in amplifying personal conflicts. In an age where every detail of a celebrity’s life is scrutinized and dissected, it can be challenging for public figures to maintain a sense of privacy. Jim Salas’ comments serve as a reminder of the impact that online discussions can have on individuals and their families, and the importance of approaching such matters with sensitivity and respect.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the issue between Paul Salas and Barbie Imperial is a deeply personal matter that requires time, patience, and understanding to resolve. Jim Salas’ decision to speak out has brought attention to the challenges faced by young celebrities and their families, but it has also highlighted the need for empathy and compassion in addressing such issues. Whether or not Paul and Barbie choose to publicly address the matter, their fans remain hopeful that they can find a way to move forward, both personally and professionally.
In the meantime, Jim Salas’ words serve as a poignant reminder of the love and concern that parents have for their children, regardless of their age or status. His willingness to speak out, despite the risks of further public scrutiny, underscores the depth of his commitment to his son and his desire to see him thrive. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, stories like this remind us of the human side of fame and the importance of supporting one another through life’s challenges.
Ultimately, the resolution of the issue lies in the hands of Paul Salas and Barbie Imperial. Their fans can only hope that they will find a way to address their differences and move forward in a way that allows them to continue pursuing their dreams. Until then, the support and understanding of their loved ones, including Jim Salas, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in helping them navigate this difficult chapter in their lives.
