Heart Evangelista Confirms She’s Jodi Sta. Maria’s Second Cousin
HEART EVANGELISTA – Kapuso Queen of Creative Collaborations Heart Evangelista revealed she’s related to actress Jodi Sta. Maria.
Netizens were surprised to discover the familial connection between Heart Evangelista and Jodi Sta. Maria. In an Instagram livestream, Heart disclosed that Jodi is her second cousin from her maternal side.
βJodi Sta. Maria is my cousin from my mother’s side,β Heart confirmed.
Heart expressed her ignorance of this relationship until several years into her showbiz career. Despite the late realization, she spoke fondly of Jodi, describing her as one of the genuinely kind personalities in the local entertainment industry and commending her acting skills.
“And I didn’t even know she was my cousin until like a few years of show business.
“But she’s my cousin. Second cousin. From my mom’s side.”
“I love Jodi Sta. Maria! She’s super nice. Those are one of the genuine, genuine ones in show business.”
Heart added, “Jodi is a great actress.”
The fashion icon even went on to praise Jodi’s beauty, comparing it to that of Hollywood actress Natalie Portman, particularly highlighting her captivating eyes. She said Jodi is “super beautiful” and has “super expressive eyes.”
I was today years old when I learned that πππππ πππππππππππ and ππππ πππ.πππππ are actually cousins. Such a revelation! π€― @heart021485 @JodiStaMaria pic.twitter.com/Q8d7VUAqV3
— Nelson Adrian (@nelsonnadrian) April 3, 2024
For those who don’t know, Heart Evangelista was born to Ma. Cecilia Payawal Ongpauco and Reynaldo Evangelista Ongpauco while Jodi and her brother Carlo were raised by their single mother, Mercedita Sta. Maria, maintained privacy regarding their family background.
Heart is now more focused on her career in the global fashion realm. Engaging as a fashion influencer, she has embarked on collaborations with multiple prestigious brands. Her most recent television appearance was in the 2021 series “I Left My Heart In Sorsogon,” where she shared the screen with Paolo Contis and Richard Yap as her leading co-stars.