Each month, Star Magic, ABS-CBN’s talent management arm, puts the spotlight on its roster of artists to celebrate their recent accomplishments. This January, all eyes were on Andrea Brillantes, who recently earned the top spot in TC Candler’s “100 Most Beautiful Faces of 2024.”
The list, compiled annually by The Independent Critics since 1990, evaluates a mix of beauty and influence across social media platforms. Despite its roots as a college project, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with its annual results reaching nearly a quarter of a billion viewers worldwide.
Promoting diversity and inclusion, the list features celebrities from over 40 countries and is regarded as one of the most prestigious compilations of its kind.
For Andrea, the recognition is deeply meaningful. “Full of gratitude, very honored that out of so many beautiful women, I was chosen to be number one. I have nothing else to say but thank you,” she shared during the Star Magic Spotlight event.
However, the actress was quick to point out that beauty doesn’t equate to perfection.
“It doesn’t mean that if you’re considered beautiful, you don’t have insecurities. I’m not perfect—no one is. There are days when I don’t feel pretty, days when I break out—like right now, I’ve got a ‘sister’ here,” she said with a laugh, gesturing to her pimple. “It’s all about perspective and mindset.”
Andrea stressed the importance of keeping insecurities in check.
“Is it worth it to let my insecurities ruin my day? Or should I focus on things that really matter? It’s normal to feel insecure; it’s normal to have good and bad days,” she said.
When asked who she believes is the most beautiful celebrity, Andrea didn’t hesitate to name her idol, Anne Curtis.
“For me, the most beautiful is Ate Anne Curtis. Ever since I was a child, she’s been my idol. What I admire most about her is her heart—how she treats people. She’s authentic and doesn’t put on any facade,” said the 21-year-old star..
Andrea also shared a fond memory from her time on Goin’ Bulilit. “Our studio was close to It’s Showtime, so I would always ask her for photos, and she never got tired of me asking for selfies. Since then, I’ve never stopped idolizing her,” she added.
Apart from the global recognition, 2024 has been a banner year for Andrea. Her makeup brand, launched in 2023, gained significant traction last year, solidifying her position as the youngest celebrity CEO in the industry.
“I’m happy, but there’s also pressure because I’m the youngest. It’s tough, to be honest, being young and a CEO. You want to be a boss, but everyone in the office is older. So I have to command respect while standing my ground. Thankfully, I’m blessed with great business partners,” she said.
As for her personal life, Andrea said she isn’t focused on dating for now.
“There are suitors, but I haven’t been able to focus on that, especially last year. Honestly, I don’t really date or look for that kind of thing,” she admitted.