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JUST IN: Elisse Joson Goes Public with Kobe Paras Romance — “I’m Finally Choosing What Makes Me Happy”

| October 10, 2025

Introduction

After months of speculation, actress Elisse Joson has confirmed her romantic relationship with professional basketball player Kobe Paras, marking a new chapter in both of their personal lives. In an exclusive interview with StarView Magazine, Joson said she was done “hiding” and emphasized that she now chooses to prioritize her own happiness — even if it means facing public scrutiny.

“I’m not here to shock anyone. I’m just choosing to be honest,” Joson said. “Yes, Kobe and I are together. And I’m proud of that.”

With those few words, the internet exploded.

The revelation ends months of online rumors, social media theories, and “blind items” that hinted at a quiet romance between the two. It also marks Joson’s first public relationship since her much-publicized past with former on-screen partner McCoy de Leon. As for Paras, known for both his athletic pedigree and celebrity status as the son of basketball legend Benjie Paras, the announcement ties him to yet another high-profile name in showbiz.

In this article, we explore the timeline of their romance, public reactions, how both stars have evolved in their careers, and what this relationship could mean for their future in the limelight.

1. Who is Elisse Joson? From Teen Star to Empowered Woman

Elisse Joson first captured public attention through her appearances in commercials and supporting roles in teen dramas. But it was her stint in Pinoy Big Brother and subsequent love team with McCoy de Leon that launched her into stardom.

Over the years, Joson has rebranded herself as more than a “kilig” queen. She has taken on more mature acting roles, branched out into business, and become an advocate for mental health and self-love. Her transformation has been slow but intentional, moving away from the shadows of her past and stepping into her own power.

2. Kobe Paras: More Than Just a Famous Surname

The son of basketball icon Benjie Paras and actress Jackie Forster, Kobe Paras has always lived under the spotlight. But he’s carved his own path, playing collegiate basketball in the United States before returning to the Philippines to continue his professional career. Known for his explosive athleticism, tattoos, and strong social media presence, Paras often finds himself in headlines—sometimes for his game, other times for his relationships.

Despite being tagged as “rebellious” in earlier years, Kobe has gradually shown signs of maturity, focusing more on his career, fitness, and now—evidently—love.

3. Timeline: From Rumors to Reality

Early 2025

Speculation begins when fans spot similar backgrounds in Instagram stories posted by Elisse and Kobe. Both deny anything is going on.

March 2025

They’re spotted at the same gym and attending mutual friends’ gatherings. Still no confirmation.

June 2025

A blurry photo allegedly showing Elisse holding hands with a man—believed to be Kobe—circulates online. Both remain silent.

September 2025

Fans notice that Elisse has started liking Kobe’s posts and vice versa. “Soft launching?” netizens ask.

October 10, 2025

Elisse confirms the relationship in a published interview and posts a photo of her and Kobe holding hands at the beach with the caption:

“No more hiding. Just living.”

4. The Exclusive Reveal: What Elisse Said

In the StarView interview, Elisse opened up about why she finally chose to go public:

“It took a while for me to reach this point. I used to worry about what people would say, how the past would affect the present. But now, I realize — I can’t keep living for the approval of strangers.”

She added:

“Kobe makes me laugh. He challenges me. And most importantly, he respects me. That’s what matters.”

The actress didn’t shy away from admitting that the relationship had its challenges, especially given both of their public profiles. “We’ve had to build this in silence, not secrecy. There’s a difference.”

5. From Heartbreak to Healing: Moving On After McCoy

Elisse Joson’s past relationship with actor McCoy de Leon was beloved by fans, but also marked by breakups, reunions, and emotional revelations. The two share a daughter, Felize, and for years, many hoped they would reconcile.

However, in late 2023, Elisse confirmed they had separated for good. In interviews since, she’s emphasized that she’s focused on healing, co-parenting, and becoming her own person again.

“I will always be grateful for what we had. But some stories end so better ones can begin.”

Her relationship with Kobe Paras, therefore, is not just about romance—it’s a symbol of personal rebirth.

6. Public Reaction: Cheers, Shade, and Mixed Emotions

Unsurprisingly, the internet had a lot to say.

Supporters praised Elisse for choosing happiness and maturity:

“She deserves love that doesn’t need to be secret.”

Skeptics, especially McLisse fans, expressed disappointment or accused her of “moving on too fast.”

Meanwhile, Paras’s fans flooded the comment sections with excitement, claiming that the two seem to “bring out the best in each other.”

The couple’s beach photo reached 1 million likes in under 12 hours—a testament to their combined influence and the public’s hunger for celebrity love stories.

7. Career Crossroads: What’s Next for Elisse and Kobe?

Elisse is currently set to star in a psychological thriller slated for a 2026 release. Her new image—confident, grown, and unapologetic—is expected to resonate with a more mature audience.

Kobe, meanwhile, is rumored to be finalizing a multi-year contract with an international basketball league. If confirmed, the move could take him overseas again, potentially testing the strength of this new relationship.

Both are entering new eras in their professional lives—and they seem ready to face it together.

8. Celebrity Relationships and Social Media Pressures

In an age where every move is scrutinized, going public with a relationship isn’t just a romantic decision—it’s a PR one. Elisse’s reveal, though emotional, was also carefully timed and controlled. It highlights a key reality in modern showbiz: privacy is power, but authenticity sells.

The challenge now will be maintaining this relationship away from the noise, expectations, and inevitable backlash that comes with celebrity coupledom in the Philippines.

9. Why This Love Story Feels Different

Elisse and Kobe’s relationship is not your typical showbiz romance. There’s no love team, no teleserye tie-in, no marketing gimmick. Their dynamic—at least from what the public has seen—is rooted in shared growth, similar scars, and newfound clarity.

They’ve both been underdogs in different ways. And perhaps that’s why fans are so invested—because it feels real, raw, and earned.

10. The Bigger Picture: Women Owning Their Narrative in Showbiz

More than a love story, this is a story about a woman reclaiming her narrative. Elisse Joson is not just someone’s ex, someone’s co-star, or someone’s “pretty face.” She’s a mother, an actress, a woman who’s choosing her peace.

In choosing to go public on her own terms, she joins a growing movement of female celebrities refusing to be defined by past relationships, public opinion, or societal timelines.

And in doing so, she’s not just changing the conversation—she’s leading it.

Conclusion

Elisse Joson’s decision to go public about her relationship with Kobe Paras isn’t just a romantic reveal—it’s a personal declaration. Of freedom. Of self-worth. Of love without shame or apology.

Whether this love lasts forever or just for this season, one thing is certain: Elisse is no longer hiding. And she’s never looked stronger.

McCoy de Leon Breaks Silence on Elisse’s New Relationship
Kobe Paras: From Courtside Drama to Emotional Growth
Love After Co-Parenting: Celebrities Who Successfully Moved On
How Female Celebrities Are Rewriting the Rules of Romance
Privacy vs. Publicity: The Cost of Going Public with Love in Showbiz