Richard Gutierrez and Barbie Imperial: Relationship Under Fire Amid Separation Issues

June 2025

Introduction

The Philippine entertainment world has once again found itself at the center of intense public scrutiny. This time, actor Richard Gutierrez and actress Barbie Imperial are in the spotlight, not for a film or TV project—but for a swirl of personal drama involving alleged relationship gifts, a brewing separation, and widespread speculation over the involvement of a third party.

With heated online discourse and growing fan interest, we break down what is known, what remains unverified, and what this tells us about celebrity culture, privacy, and accountability in the digital era.

Chapter 1: The Timeline Begins

It all began when photos and videos surfaced online of Richard Gutierrez and Barbie Imperial together at a bar in Alabang in early 2024. The initial media coverage was tame—just a sighting of two public figures spending time together in a social setting. But as online chatter intensified, so did speculation.

At that point, Richard Gutierrez had been noticeably absent from public events with his wife, Sarah Lahbati. Observers noted changes in both their social media patterns and appearances—fueling talk that their marriage might be in trouble. As it turns out, they had already separated, but had not yet made an official statement.

The timing of these events gave rise to one of the most persistent rumors in recent memory: Was Barbie Imperial involved in the separation? And was Richard still sending her gifts—only to allegedly “take them back” after things turned sour?

Chapter 2: Social Media Uproar

By mid-2024, Filipino social media lit up with posts and opinions about Richard and Barbie. Rumors flew that Richard had gifted Barbie several luxury items, including designer bags, jewelry, and even a rumored condo unit. Screenshots circulated without context. Then came the twist: allegations that Richard had asked for those gifts back.

These allegations, though unverified, added fuel to the already smoldering rumor that Barbie played a role in Richard’s split from Sarah Lahbati. Hashtags like #BarbieImperial and #RichardGutierrez trended multiple times. Comment sections on Instagram and Facebook were flooded with both support and criticism.

But in a landscape shaped by virality, was any of it actually true?

Chapter 3: Richard Speaks Out

In January 2025, Richard Gutierrez gave an exclusive interview on a popular entertainment talk show. For the first time, he directly addressed the issue of his separation and clarified Barbie’s role in his life. He stated firmly that Barbie Imperial was not the cause of his separation from Sarah Lahbati and that there was no third-party involvement during their marriage.

He explained that he and Barbie developed a friendship that later evolved into something more—but only after his relationship with Sarah had already ended. He also confirmed that he and Sarah had initiated the annulment process months earlier and were focused on co-parenting their two sons.

Richard did not address the gift-related rumors specifically, but his public statements hinted at frustration with “malicious speculation” online. He asked for privacy and respect, especially for the sake of his children.

Chapter 4: Barbie’s Silence—and Poise

Amid the whirlwind, Barbie Imperial largely kept silent. She neither confirmed nor denied the rumors. Instead, she posted positive messages on her social media accounts, focusing on self-growth, career plans, and family.

Sources close to Barbie claimed she had nothing to do with the breakdown of Richard’s marriage, and that she had been unfairly targeted because of her past relationships and online image. Her fans rallied behind her, starting hashtags like #ProtectBarbie and #RespectWomen.

Barbie’s management declined to issue an official statement, reinforcing her desire to remain private during the controversy.

Chapter 5: Sarah Lahbati’s Quiet Resolve

On the other end of the story was Sarah Lahbati, who had chosen to remain mostly silent in public. She confirmed her separation from Richard during a short statement at a charity event, simply saying that she and Richard were “taking different paths” and that their focus was on raising their children in a stable environment.

Sarah, known for her poise and elegance, gained sympathy from many netizens who viewed her as the aggrieved party. However, she made no accusations against Barbie or Richard, instead projecting grace under pressure.

Chapter 6: Are the Gift Rumors True?

To date, there is no verified proof that Richard Gutierrez asked Barbie Imperial to return gifts. The rumors appear to stem from anonymous tips and unauthenticated screenshots shared on forums and fan pages.

No official statement from either party has acknowledged the gift rumor, and no third party has come forward with legal or material evidence. That hasn’t stopped the internet from drawing conclusions, but without evidence, the story remains firmly in the realm of gossip.

Chapter 7: The Broader Impact

This controversy speaks to a larger trend in Philippine showbiz: the blurring of lines between public and private lives. In a world where celebrities are expected to be both relatable and mysterious, every move can be weaponized.

The Richard-Barbie-Sarah saga highlights how quickly rumors can spread, how reputations can be shaped by whispers, and how online commentary can influence the direction of public sympathy. It also shows the danger of trial-by-social-media, where facts often take a backseat to virality.

Chapter 8: Where Things Stand Now

As of June 2025:

Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati are officially separated and in the process of annulment.
Richard and Barbie Imperial are confirmed to have had a relationship, post-separation.
Barbie remains focused on her career and avoids engaging with online hate.
Sarah continues to maintain her role as a hands-on mother and brand endorser.
The alleged gift repossession remains unverified.

What started as a personal transition between two celebrities has evolved into a national conversation on privacy, respect, and gendered double standards.

Conclusion

The Richard Gutierrez-Barbie Imperial saga serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of public scrutiny and the price of fame. While it’s easy to consume and share celebrity gossip, the damage done by unverified rumors can be long-lasting.

At this stage, there is no evidence that Barbie Imperial was a “third party.” There is also no confirmed report that Richard “took back” any gifts. What we do know is that all three individuals involved have conducted themselves with dignity in the face of very public scrutiny.

As fans and viewers, perhaps it’s time we remember that celebrities are people too—navigating heartbreak, career changes, and personal growth just like anyone else.

🔗 Further Reading / Related Articles

“Richard Gutierrez says Barbie Imperial had no role in split with Sarah Lahbati – PhilSTAR Life”
“‘Not a third party’: Richard Gutierrez clears Barbie Imperial’s name – Philstar.com”
“Richard confirms annulment proceedings with Sarah Lahbati – Rappler”
“Barbie Imperial maintains silence amid backlash – Manila Bulletin”
“Sarah Lahbati breaks silence on separation – Inquirer Entertainment”