Nora Aunor’s ‘Legal’ Husband Goes Public

Former actor and vocal coach Richard Merck recently shared a surprising statement after he revealed that he is allegedly the legal husband of the late National Artist and Superstar Nora Aunor.

In an exclusive interview, Richard recounted that he and Nora Aunor got married in Las Vegas in the year 1988. According to him, the wedding took place while they were traveling together to the United States to watch a concert. This is not known to the general public, especially many of the superstar fans.

“I apologized so much to her… Kasi, I left her without saying goodbye. That’s the very thing, eh, I think I’ve made a mistake—that I’ve left without saying goodbye,” Richard said emotionally. He admits that this was one of his biggest shortcomings in their relationship—to just leave without a word or explanation.

Although their marriage ended in divorce, Richard clarified that their marriage was never legalized or ended in a document.

“So sayang nga, e. We lost a superstar. I lost my ex-wife. We were married, you know. In Vegas,” dagdag pa niya.

Aniya pa, “So, we were not divorced. We never went to Vegas to divorce. So, malungkot.”

According to Richard, their relationship began as a professional—he had been Nora’s vocal coach at the time. From the friendship that resulted from their musical collaboration, it gradually turned into deeper feelings that resulted from their marriage.

This revelation shocked not only the public but also the Noranians—long-time fans of Ate Guy. For many, the only known relationship and husband of the Superstar is Christopher de Leon, her love team mate and partner in many movies and programs.

However, Nora and Christopher’s annulment and legal separation were not finalized until 1996. Therefore, if Richard and Nora’s marriage was true in 1988, it could not have been recognized as legal, since Nora was still legally married to Christopher at the time.

This opened up the question of the legality of the relationship that Richard had recounted. At this time, Nora Aunor’s family has not made an official statement regarding her remarks. It remains unclear if there are any documents to substantiate the alleged Las Vegas marriage, or if it is considered by the family as part of Nora’s official life history.

Still, the sadness on Richard’s face was evident as he recalled his memories of his and Nora’s. Despite the long time that has passed and misunderstandings, the depth of the connection they shared is still undeniable, no matter how long or obscure in the eyes of the law.

Her story served as a reminder that behind the brilliance of the stars in front of the camera, there are also stories that are not shared with the public—secrets of the heart that have never been revealed.