In a raw and emotional moment that’s taking social media by storm, controversial personality Xander Ford has broken down in tears as he publicly confronted a haunting reality: his surgically enhanced appearance is fading, revealing signs of his former look — the very look he once rejected.

In a recent livestream that quickly went viral, Xander — whose real name is Marlou Arizala — was seen crying uncontrollably, reflecting on the mistakes of his past and expressing deep regret over the arrogance he once displayed at the height of his fame.

“I Thought Fame Would Fix Everything…”

Through sobs and trembling words, Xander confessed that he now sees how fame changed him, and not always for the better.

“Lahat ginawa ko para gumwapo. Akala ko ‘pag nagbago ang itsura ko, magiging masaya ako. Pero hindi pala gano’n,” he admitted in Filipino.
“Ngayon, unti-unti nang bumabalik ang dating mukha ko… at ang sakit pala.”

He revealed that some of the cosmetic enhancements he underwent several years ago have now deteriorated or shifted over time, leading to physical and emotional distress.

The Rise and Fall: A Fame Fueled by Vanity

Xander Ford shot to fame in 2017 when he underwent multiple cosmetic surgeries and dramatically rebranded himself, distancing from his past as Marlou — a former Hasht5 member often mocked online. With a new name and face, he embraced a confident — at times arrogant — persona, which led to widespread media attention but also public backlash.

His attitude, which many described as “mayabang” (arrogant), soon turned people off. What began as a transformation story quickly spiraled into a cautionary tale about ego and identity.

Regret and Redemption?

Now, years later, the man behind the transformation is clearly battling regret and a desperate desire for redemption.

“Kung may babalikan ako, babalik ako sa pagiging totoo. Mas masarap pala ‘yung mahal ka ng tao kahit hindi ka perpekto,” he said tearfully.

He also apologized to the people he hurt or disappointed during his rise to fame, including fans, former friends, and fellow celebrities.

Public Reaction: Sympathy and Reflection

Netizens were quick to react, with a wave of mixed emotions:

“Nakakaawa si Xander. He was just a kid trying to be accepted.”

“Let this be a lesson to all: fame fades, but character remains.”

“We hope he finds peace and healing.”

Some commenters, however, remained skeptical, saying the apology came “too late,” but many urged the public to show compassion.

The Pressure of Perfection in the Age of Social Media

Xander’s breakdown highlights the toxic pressure many young influencers face in chasing perfection and approval. In an industry that rewards looks and popularity, Xander’s experience is a harsh reminder of the cost of changing yourself for the wrong reasons.

What’s Next for Xander Ford?

While his future remains uncertain, Xander hinted that he’s now more focused on healing, reflection, and authenticity. He plans to step away from the spotlight — at least temporarily — and work on rebuilding his confidence from within.

“Hindi ko na kailangan magkunwaring okay. This time, I just want to be me,” he said in closing.

Xander Ford to Ogie Diaz: “I’m just ugly and Retouched but I’m not a bad person.”
Xander Ford on accusations about his attitude: “I’m going to great lengths to show that I did this procedure even though I didn’t want to. to change your mind.”
Xander Ford pleaded with radio host Ogie Diaz not to “judge” and “destroy” him.

This is in relation to Ogie’s Facebook post about the social media sensation being “arrogant,” even when she hadn’t had any retouching done and her name was still Marlou Arizala.

Ogie’s base was stories from people he knew. In his own Facebook post on Saturday night, October 7, Xander denied the negative stories about him.

He directly referred to Ogie and those who were “angry” about him spreading “my bad attitude” and “my head is growing like cheese.”

Xander said, “I want you to know that what you are spreading about me that I have bad habits and that my head is big is not true.

“How did you know? All my life I have been getting insults from people. You are making it out that I don’t know how to get along.”

After this, Xander released his complaint to the people who are allegedly pulling him down.

“First of all, I am trying hard to show that I did this procedure even though I don’t want to. to change your opinion.

“Yes, I am crying because you don’t know what I am doing. How do you want me to do it? Please be kind to me, I am already struggling with what I am hearing.

“I am crying because you are the adults who should understand me. but you are the ones who are pulling me down.”

Xander insisted that the stories that are coming out about him are untrue.

“I hope you know that I don’t know what you’re saying. I’m just doing my job, I’m not trying to hurt anyone. I’m not trying to hurt anyone.” I hope you know what you’re saying about me. I’m still with you. If you hear anything about anything, that’s a reason for me to cry.