Since their triumphant time in the PBB house over a year ago, JM Ibarra and Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 Big Winner Fyang Smith have been navigating fame and the entertainment industry, and they have been candid about bashing and cancel culture.

In 2024, Fyang and JM’s natural relationship on Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 initially garnered attention. What began as a straightforward relationship between the two quickly developed into one of their generation’s most popular love pairings, affectionately referred to by fans as “JMFyang.” However, the harsh reality of internet scrutiny accompanied their rising fame.

JM and Fyang discussed how they continue to manage the highs and lows of being in the spotlight in an open and sultry discussion on Hot Takes.

JM acknowledged that although he has learned to remain composed in the face of criticism, there are times when it is hard to ignore negativity.

Fyang had to redefine her relationship with social media in order to deal with negativity. She explained how withdrawing from the internet became her strategy for preserving her tranquility.

JM, on the other hand, adopts a more contemplative stance and decides to learn from constructive criticism. He emphasized that cancel culture frequently results from false information, which is unjust to artists who are evaluated without considering all relevant factors. Even yet, he is still receptive to constructive feedback.

He added, “Part na ‘yan ng pinasok mo na trabaho so kailangan may acceptance ka na sa gano’n.”

The two revealed that they purposefully disengage from the industry when necessary to preserve their mental space.

Fyang disclosed that when the noise gets too much, they both go trekking, which is one of their favorite ways to escape. To the joy of their followers, the couple recently hiked Mt. Pulag and Mt. Pinatubo and posted their photos online.

Fyang, on the other hand, emphasized that not everything needs to be explained and noted that their reality is independent of public approval.

In retrospect, Fyang acknowledged that their PBB experience had given her a more resilient attitude toward criticism.

JM and Fyang are thankful for their progress despite the public criticism that comes with celebrity. The two discussed how their experiences—from regular people in the PBB house to up-and-coming celebrities navigating the entertainment industry—have helped them become more self-aware and grounded artists.

Almost Us, a joint project between Regal Entertainment and Project 8 Projects, will be released in theaters across the country on May 6, 2026, and will feature the couple’s chemistry.