Shining Onscreen, Icon at Home: How Marian Rivera-Dantes Balances Motherhood and Career
Philippine entertainment is undeniably a fiercely contested landscape where career longevity is unpredictable. A name may rise to the spotlight overnight, yet fade just as quickly. It is often said that distinctiveness allows one to thrive in the long run. This is something Marian Rivera-Dantes has never struggled with, as she has consistently done things her own way.
And if there’s one thing that truly sets Marian apart, it’s her commitment—not just as an actress, but also as a mother.
Reigning Beyond Beauty
MariMar, Dyesebel, and Darna—these are just a few of the iconic teleseryes Marian brought to life. The actress has managed to achieve back-to-back top-rating shows, which makes her truly deserving of the title “Kapuso Primetime Queen.”
Proving her bright stardom, Marian isn’t just a primetime queen—she is also a phenomenal box-office superstar. Her comeback film “Rewind,” starring alongside her husband Dingdong Dantes, became the Philippines’ highest-grossing film of 2023 before it was later surpassed by “Hello, Love, Again.” Notably, the movie reached the ₱900-million peso mark at the global box office.
From multiple endorsements to her vast social media reach, Marian unmistakably demonstrates star power. It’s no surprise she continues to reign as one of the most sought-after actresses in the country.
As the saying goes, “Beauty alone can’t make you a star.” The thing about Marian is that she isn’t just a pretty face. She steadily backs her beauty with her acting prowess. Her accolades are a testament to this, having earned multiple prestigious Best Actress awards in a single year. It’s no wonder the Philippine Academy of Film and Television Arts recognized her as the Modern Grand Slam Best Actress.
A Star That Shines Everywhere
Marian’s star power isn’t confined—it knows no borders. The actress recently flew to Vietnam, where she headlined a major fashion event for Hacchic Couture, a Vietnamese luxury fashion house. This appearance also gave Marian an opportunity to connect with her fans in Vietnam.
Serving as the vedette (star model), Marian drew massive attention at the brand’s much-awaited Lunar Fracture: The Art of Harmony Showcase. Vietnamese fans turned out in full force to warmly show their support for Marian. They were even spotted rushing to meet the actress the moment she arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
In 2021, she further solidified her far-reaching influence when the Miss Universe Organization selected her as one of its judges. By then, it was clear that Marian’s ethereal beauty wasn’t the only thing that felt ageless—her stardom, firmly stamped with her name, has proven to be timeless.
A Mother Who’s There Through It All
Despite being a huge star looked up to by many, one thing Marian never lets the limelight overshadow is her duty as a mother. Her busy schedule is never a hindrance to her being a superstar—at home.
There have been many moments when Marian has shown how unwavering her devotion is to her children, Zia and Sixto Dantes. From being a supportive mother during her daughter’s “Rise Up” song recital to being the number one cheerleader at her son’s swimming competition, Marian has always been there.
“Discipline begins at home”—a principle Marian strongly upholds. Marian openly shared how she and her husband work together when it comes to disciplining their children. She emphasized the importance of setting clear boundaries and helping their kids realize what they have done wrong.
Further, Marian admitted that it’s inevitable for her to raise her voice at times. But she never forgets to apologize and explain her actions to her children. She even reminded parents not to be afraid to say “sorry” to their kids, especially when they are the ones at fault. Marian said that doing so sets an example for children. It teaches them not to be ashamed or afraid to tell the truth when they make mistakes.
When Filipino broadcaster Karmina Constantino asked Marian what she wants her children to remember about her as a mother, Marian instantly replied, “I can give up everything for them. I really could.” She added that whenever Zia and Sixto need her at school, she goes—whether she is on set or taping.
And even if it upset her co-workers, she stood by her words: “I need to be there.”
Marian is often seen as a woman of glamour, yet behind this is a mother who would do whatever it takes for her children. If her stardom crosses borders, her love for her children, on the other hand, knows no bounds. Truly, she is a living embodiment of the fact that a mother’s love is infinite—immeasurable and beyond measure.
