In an industry where fame can arrive overnight, director Andoy Ranay is urging aspiring performers to slow down — and return to the basics.

During his guest appearance on Walang Kwentang Podcast, the filmmaker spoke candidly about what he believes is missing among many newcomers: discipline shaped by real performance experience, particularly theater.

“Hindi kasi pwedeng sasalang ka na lang nang hindi ka handa. Katulad sa mga baguhang artista na nag-workshop lang sandali, artista na. Ganun.”

For Ranay, the issue is not talent — it’s preparation. He pointed out how the current system can prematurely push beginners into the spotlight without enough grounding in craft.

“Diba? Nanalo lang dun sa contest, artista na.”

His tone sharpened as he recalled encountering performers who entered productions unready for the demands of the profession.

“Ay, excuse me, oo. Parang yun kasi yung pinakanangigigil ako eh, kasi na-experience ko sila na ganun.”

Ranay stressed that acting is more than visibility. It requires consistent training, repetition and respect for the process — values traditionally cultivated in stage work, where performers cannot rely on multiple takes or editing.

“Nangigigil ako! Oo eh. Yung skills bilang artista, lalo na sa baguhan ngayon, they really lack those skills. And they also lack the discipline na pinaka-importante sa lahat.”

His remarks echo a growing conversation inside the Philippine entertainment scene: that technical skill and artistic responsibility must evolve alongside popularity. For Ranay, theater remains the ultimate training ground — a place where performers earn confidence, resilience and the professionalism needed to survive long after the hype fades.