Nicole Andersson has it all—beauty, brains, body and a wicked sense of humor to boot.

Many remember her as a young actress who starred in a number of TV shows on ABS-CBN and on GMA. She had a promising career, with her last project Encantadia featuring her as one of the four leading ladies. Stardom was already knocking on her door but Andersson decided to pack her bags and continue her studies in the States.

Now, Andersson is back and is ready to test the showbiz waters again.

You recently came back from the States. What did you do there?

I went to college. It’s a promise I made to my parents that I wanted to keep. I didn’t expect to do as well as I did. I’m very grateful for the experience.

Why embark on a showbiz career when you have a degree and can get a high-paying corporate job?

That’s what a lot of people ask me. The reason I returned was because I missed it so much while I was away. Dramatic and the performing arts have always been a passion of mine and I don’t think that’s ever going to change.

What kind of jobs in showbiz would you want?

Well, its always been a dream of mine to be a lead in a TV show and in a movie—I want to do it all. My friends say I’m a natural host daw kasi ang daldal ko, which is true. People say I have to choose just one, though, pero libre naman ang mangarap, so why not?!

You’ve recently landed a hosting gig for an upcoming show. Tell me about it.

Well, it’s called Cooltura and it’s a lifestyle magazine show that focuses on promoting nationalism through educating the youth about our heritage and culture. I’m very excited about the concept because it’s a cause I can relate with. I learn so much with every segment I do and it’s fun at the same time.

People describe you as wacky and funny. What’s the craziest thing that you’ve done?

Well, I’m very spontaneous and fun-loving. So I’ve done so many silly things but nothing illegal or bad, just funny. It usually involves making fun of myself and some silly dance.

But at the same time many are also intimidated by you. What can you say about this?

People somehow think that I’m mataray but I’m one of the easiest people to approach, sometimes to a fault. All you need to do is to come and say hi and see what happens. I think I’d surprise you.

Your mom is actress Jean Saburit. How is it growing up with her as a mom? Any advantage that you’re her daughter?

I won’t lie. Being the daughter of someone of her stature has its pros and cons. I owe my start in showbiz to her and I think people are more forgiving because she is my mom. However, that also means that I’m compared to her quite often and that is hard because she’s still so gorgeous. I am proud to be her daughter but I think people should also see how different we are and see us as two different people, because we are.

How’s your lovelife?  What type of man are you attracted to?

Nonexistent! (Laughs) I like a man who can make me laugh. Drama-free, driven and informed. I’m more attracted to their minds than their physical qualities. But I’m really not looking now. I’m enjoying my work and my time with friends. If it comes, then we’ll see....

Since you’re making some sort of a comeback, any changes in the business that you’ve noticed?

Well, I’ve noticed that there are a lot of new faces. I like that fresh and new talents are being given an opportunity.

Are you ready for rumors to again hound you?

I understand that rumors come with the territory but I will never entertain rumors started out of spite and thin air. Some rumors are just so farfetched that it’s actually funny to think where they were derived from.

What kind of Nicole Andersson should we expect now?

You can expect a stronger, more mature version of me. Living alone and having all the responsibilities that I did made me grow up and appreciate the things we take for granted here. I’m happy to be back home in Manila.