Yen Santos Reflects on Past Relationship with Paolo Contis: “It Was a Nightmare I Had to Wake Up From” (NH)

Yen Santos Reflects on Past Relationship with Paolo Contis: “It Was a Nightmare I Had to Wake Up From”

📅 Published: July 28, 2025
📍 Manila, Philippines

Introduction

Actress Yen Santos has finally broken her silence regarding her much-publicized past relationship with actor-host Paolo Contis, describing the experience as one of the most painful and regrettable chapters in her personal life.

In a heartfelt interview aired on a digital lifestyle podcast over the weekend, Yen did not mince words when asked about her relationship with Contis — once the subject of intense media attention and public debate.

“It felt like a long nightmare,” she admitted. “Looking back, I can finally say I’ve woken up — and I’ve learned so much.”

Her remarks have triggered renewed public interest, not just in the specifics of her former relationship, but in the deeper conversations around emotional maturity, forgiveness, and the impact of high-profile breakups on personal healing.

A Look Back: The Relationship That Made Headlines

Yen Santos and Paolo Contis were romantically linked in 2021 following Contis’ controversial breakup with actress LJ Reyes. At the time, their connection was widely discussed online, with many speculating whether their relationship had begun before Paolo’s previous one ended.

Though both actors initially kept quiet, they were later seen traveling together and posting subtle hints on social media. The relationship was never formally confirmed during its early stages, but by 2022, it was openly acknowledged — and frequently scrutinized.

What Yen Said in the Interview

Now, in 2025, Yen has finally offered insight into how the relationship impacted her personally and professionally.

“It was heavy. There were days I didn’t recognize myself anymore,” she shared. “You try to love someone who’s still figuring themselves out, and in the process, you lose who you are.”

Yen emphasized that she takes full responsibility for her choices but admitted that the relationship drained her emotionally and led her into a prolonged period of self-doubt.

“There’s no point blaming others now. But yes — it was a mistake. A big one. And I paid for it in many ways.”

When asked directly if she regretted the relationship, she replied without hesitation:

“Yes. It was a mistake I wouldn’t repeat. But I’ve also grown because of it.”

Emotional Toll and Career Impact

During the time of the relationship, Yen’s career saw a noticeable slowdown. Although she had received praise for her role in A Faraway Land, she pulled back from television projects and red-carpet appearances.

“I lost projects. I lost endorsements. I lost people who looked up to me. I understood why,” she said candidly. “I wasn’t proud of myself back then.”

She admitted to undergoing therapy and spending time off the grid to “rediscover who she was outside of that chapter.”

Public Reaction: A Wave of Support and Vindication

Yen’s honest remarks have generated strong reactions across social media:

🔹 Supporters flooded her with messages:

“Thank you for your honesty. So many of us have been there — loving someone who wasn’t ready.”
“This is growth. This is healing. Proud of you, Yen.”
“Real women own their past and rise above it.”

🔹 Critics were also quick to weigh in:

Some netizens accused her of playing the victim too late, especially after years of staying silent when others, including Paolo’s former partner LJ Reyes, bore the brunt of public sympathy.

However, many argued that Yen’s acknowledgment, though delayed, was still brave and valuable.

Paolo Contis’ Side: Still Silent

As of publishing, Paolo Contis has not issued any response to Yen’s statements. The actor-host remains active in TV hosting and acting but has kept a lower profile when it comes to his private life after the highly publicized controversies of 2021–2023.

In past interviews, Paolo mentioned going through “personal transitions” but never addressed his relationship with Yen in detail.

Celebrity Relationships and Public Accountability

Yen’s revelation adds to a growing list of public figures who have opened up about the emotional aftermath of controversial relationships. Her words point to a broader issue — how personal decisions, especially when under public scrutiny, can deeply affect one’s sense of identity.

Her willingness to reflect publicly also reflects a shift in how celebrities are choosing to process pain: not through denial or silence, but through openness and accountability.

Yen Santos Today: Rebuilding with Purpose

Yen now appears to be in a better place — both emotionally and professionally. After taking a step back from the limelight, she has recently returned to acting, focusing on more meaningful, dramatic roles.

She’s also been active in mental health campaigns and women’s empowerment programs, using her experience as a platform for awareness and growth.

“I used to be afraid of being judged. Now I just want to live a life I’m proud of,” she said.

Conclusion: A Story of Pain, Growth, and Self-Redemption

In telling her story, Yen Santos offers more than just gossip fodder — she offers a narrative that many women can relate to: loving the wrong person, making difficult choices, and finding the courage to start again.

Her candid acknowledgment of regret is not just about Paolo Contis — it’s about reclaiming her voice, her story, and her future.

As she said in the final part of the interview: