Andrea Brillantes, a prominent figure in the world of acting, modelling, and business, is often celebrated as the “Queen of Gen Z”. Her rise to stardom began at the tender age of seven with roles in television shows such as Goin’ Bulilit and E-Boy. Over the years, she has established a powerful presence on social media platforms, particularly on TikTok, and currently ranks fifth in Instagram revenue among Filipino celebrities. In addition to her successful acting career, she is also the CEO of a prosperous makeup company, a venture she started at just 19 years old.
However, recent rumors surrounding Brillantes’ sexual orientation have stirred curiosity among her followers and fans. Some have questioned whether the actress identifies as a lesbian, but there is currently no public confirmation of such speculation.
Brillantes’ participation in the LoveLaban Pride Festival in June 2023 at Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, an event organised by Pride PH to honour and support the LGBTQIA+ community, has fueled these rumors. She was one of several high-profile guests who attended the event, demonstrating her solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. Although Brillantes’ involvement in the festival signified her backing as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, it does not confirm her sexual orientation.
At the festival, Brillantes expressed her delight in being a part of the celebration and witnessing attendees living their lives authentically. She stressed the importance of allies like herself using their platforms to advocate for equality and protection of the LGBTQIA+ community.
While many public figures, including celebrities, are understandably reticent about disclosing details about their personal lives, Brillantes has not yet publicly declared her sexual orientation or gender identity. However, information regarding her past romantic relationship with a male suggests that she identifies as a female.
Brillantes had a high-profile relationship with Ricci Rivero, a Filipino basketball player. Speculation about their relationship began in March 2022 when the couple was seen together at various locations in Taguig. The rumor mill went into overdrive when Brillantes was seen donning a UP Fighting Maroons jersey bearing number 25, which was Rivero’s jersey number. This sparked further speculation about their relationship status. In April 2022, Rivero made a public declaration of his feelings by asking Brillantes to be his girlfriend after a University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) game, which she accepted.
Throughout their relationship, the couple shared snippets of their journey on social media, captivating the public’s attention. In September 2022, during an interview, Rivero called Brillantes ‘the one’, expressing his deep affection for her. They even shared anecdotes about their first meeting at a club and their early interactions on social media. Despite the public declarations of love, their relationship encountered difficulties, and it eventually ended, with Rivero confirming their split.
In the absence of explicit confirmation from Andrea Brillantes regarding her gender identity or sexuality, it is imperative to discuss such matters with sensitivity and respect for her privacy. As individuals, we have the right to share or withhold aspects of our personal lives as per our comfort and preferences.
