Actor and stage performer Pepe Herrera has withdrawn from “Your Face Sounds Familiar” to focus on his mental health.
On Sunday, Nov. 15, hosts Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario announced his permanent departure from the program.
The show released Pepe’s personal statement, in which he opened up about decades-long struggles with depression and anxiety. He described the message as a “love letter” to the public and said the decision to step back was necessary for his recovery.
“I haven’t been well for decades…I realized I have been struggling with depression and anxiety attacks alternately since I was 13 years old,” he wrote.
Pepe then recounted recent panic attacks, insomnia and physical symptoms that led to what he described as a “turning point,” prompting him to seek therapy and commit to treatment.
The actor said he has resumed regular sessions with his psychotherapist and will be taking an indefinite leave from work with the support of his wife.
“After more than three decades of trying to be a people pleaser, I decided to choose myself and my healing,” he said.
Pepe thanked the show’s directors, hosts, mentors, cast and viewers for their support, and expressed hope that his openness would encourage others facing similar struggles to seek help.
