BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

In a groundbreaking move that sent shockwaves and surreal feelings through the entertainment industry, ABS-CBN’s iconic noontime variety show “It’s Showtime” made its debut on a new network home, airing on GMA Network on April 6, 2024.

The highly anticipated premiere marked a significant moment in Philippine television history, as “It’s Showtime,” known for its lively segments, celebrity guests, and electrifying performances, found a new home on a rival network.

Amidst the ongoing landscape of network wars and shifting alliances in the Philippine media industry, the move by GMA Network to acquire “It’s Showtime” for vacant noontime slot signifies a strategic maneuver to strengthen its programming lineup and capture a wider audience share.

Fans and viewers across the country tuned in with bated breath as the familiar opening theme of “It’s Showtime” echoed through their screens, albeit on a different channel. The show’s beloved hosts, including Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, Kim Chiu, Ogie Alcasid, Karylle, Amy Perez, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, MC, Lassy, Cianne Dominguez, and the latest addition, Darren Espanto. 

To celebrate and welcome them to the Kapuso Network, some Kapuso stars such as Gabbi Garcia, Sanya Lopez, Glaiza de Castro, Jillian Ward, Mark Bautista, Christian Bautista, Jake Vargas, Mikee Quintos, Nadine Samonte, and Chanty appeared as guests to play in the segment called “KaraoKids.”

But one of the real highlights and greatly adored and trending was Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee’s stint as a searcher for the “EXpecially For You” segment, where she was joined by her mother Melanie Marquez. Although Kevin Ty, a content creator-commercial talent, and Martin Javier, a sportscaster, exhibited charisma, it was the confidence of Cebu-based lawyer Oliver Moeller that secured him two green flags for a date with Dee among the contestants.

Furthermore, just when we believed that Vice Ganda’s helicopter video during the show’s GTV premiere last year was astounding, the host elevated her performance to another level by literally striking a pose (detractors might claim it’s edited) atop the heart icon on GMA Network’s logo situated at the pinnacle of the building. Vice also delivered a compelling speech and performed four songs, since this was also her post-birthday celebration. 

In attendance at the grand event were past “Encantadia” cast members Gabbi Garcia, Glaiza De Castro, Sanya Lopez, and Karylle. The Sang’gres warmly exchanged Avisala greetings, fondly reminiscing about the characters they portrayed.

It’s Showtime now airs from Monday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m., on GMA, GTV, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online, A2Z, and other Kapamilya platforms. It’s Showtime used to be on Channel 2 before ABS-CBN lost its franchise in May 2020. Afterward, the show was aired on A2Z and TV5.

On the other hand, “Eat Bulaga!” moved to TV5 after many of its original cast members left due to disagreements with TAPE Inc. Meanwhile, Showtime transferred to GTV, the sister channel of the Kapuso Network. “It’s Showtime” replaced “Tahanang Pinakamasaya” on GMA-7 which bid goodbye last March, which used to be known as “Eat Bulaga!” before Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon won the trademark case.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo: GMA Network