Kapuso star Kazel Kinouchi has addressed rumors linking her to Richard Gutierrez, which surfaced amid his split with Sarah Lahbati.
Speaking on the program ‘Lutong Bahay’ hosted by Mikee Quintos, Kazel clarified that there was no truth to speculations about her involvement in the breakup.
“Last year, nadikit ‘yung name ko sa kanya. Parang nakita kami together sa breakup,” Kazel said, referring to a viral photo of her and Richard during Halloween 2023.
Kazel explained that the picture, which fueled the rumors, was taken in their village, where both she and Richard live.
“We have common friends. Actually, hindi nga kami friends ni Richard. Sakto, nandun lang siya, same street. Tapos napicturan kami. May picture ako kumukuha sa isang bahay, tapos siya nandun din sa kabilang bahay,” the ‘Abot Kamay na Pangarap’ actress said.
She described the incident as a coincidence, attributing the speculations to public curiosity over Richard and Sarah’s separation.
“Kasi nga, diba, may issue, so ano lang—naghahanap lang ‘yung mga tao ng reason kung bakit,” she added.
Rumors of a split between Richard and Sarah began circulating in late 2023 when Sarah was noticeably absent from Annabelle Rama’s birthday party. By January 2024, the two had unfollowed each other on Instagram, and Sarah moved into a new home shortly after.
In March 2024, Sarah confirmed their separation but emphasized that she and Richard remained on good terms. The two had been married since 2020.
Kazel expressed hope that the issue linking her to Richard would be resolved, as there was no basis for the allegations.
“Walang anything sa amin ni Richard. Sana matapos na ang issue,” she said.
