Elmo Magalona
Actor Elmo Magalona said he is thrilled to be able to experience being a program host for the first time in “PIE Night Long” (PNL) that airs Monday to Sunday, 8-11 p.m. on the Pinoy Interactive Entertainment Channel (PIE).
“This is actually my first venture as a host. I feel that, compared to the others here, I’m the most inexperienced,” said Elmo of other PNL jocks Karen Bordador, Vivoree, Aaron Maniego and Renee Dominique, who are all social media celebrities in their own right.
“I took on this challenge because I wanted to show people a different side of my being an artist. I’m especially thrilled because in ‘PNL Sessions,’ I get to talk with different creative minds when it comes to music,” said the 28-year-old.
Other segments under “PIE Night Long” are “How to B U?,” which showcases PNL jocks living the life of different workers, while “Moment Mo” features people from different walks of life and their interesting stories. “Tender Love & Karen” are for those seeking love and life advice from Karen, while viewers who want to be in the loop of the latest controversial issues can watch “UZI.”
PIE is a new free-to-air channel co-owned by Kroma Entertainment, 971Ventures and ABS-CBN, which operates as its main content provider.
First in PH
Calling itself the country’s first multiscreen and real-time interactive entertainment channel, PIE features shows mixed with real-time interaction format that can be viewed at any devices. Since May 2022, PIE has been streaming worldwide through its YouTube channel, its official website, GCash’s GLife, and broadcasting through Beam TV.
Asked for his advice to other artists who may be struggling as the industry transitions and begins embracing the various interactive platforms, Elmo said: “Just follow your heart because it will always lead you to a good path. That’s all I can say.”
Gretchen Fullido
Even celebrities more identified with traditional media are now embracing what is called the interactive platform.
“It’s so much different from what we are used to in traditional media. You get reactions a lot quicker, especially in interactive polls,” said Gretchen Fullido, who has been a show biz newsreader for 12 years before joining the morning talk show “BRGY Piesilog” (airs Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-12 noon on PIE).
“I’m honored to be part of ‘BRGY Piesilog.’ From ‘TV Patrol’ where you see me sharing the latest show biz news, I look so different here: I sing and dance, and sometimes, I actually make jokes,” said Gretchen when asked about what new things she can offer to viewers in “BRGY Piesilog.”
Real self
“I’m proud of this show because it gives practical public service. We also have a bulletin on job offerings. You get all the information you need on current issues just by tuning in. I’m enjoying what I do here so much that I’m so clingy to my cohosts,” said Gretchen of her “brunchkada,” such as Abby Trinidad, Frances Cabatuando, Mayor TV, Tristan Ramirez, Madam Inutz, Migs Bustos and Nicole Cordovez.
Gretchen said she didn’t really have to adjust much in terms of hosting. “Ang lakas maka-bagets! I’ll be celebrating my 12th year as a Star Patroller on ‘TV Patrol’ in November and I’ve never been able to show my real self there. I’m really goofy and galawgaw. These qualities came out instantly when I joined PIE. I guess it was because I really felt at home with them.”
She continued: “Now the problem is when I’m in ‘Patrol,’ I have to remind myself to always be in control, to not be galawgaw. When I’m in PIE, they tell me not to be too stiff. They encourage me to be rowdy. I’m still figuring out the right mix, but I’m already having so much fun.”
Luckily, Gretchen said she has yet to encounter bashers. “Most of the comments I’ve read were those saying they appreciate my antics. If ever I’d see negative ones, I’d take them with a grain of salt. If ever there’d be criticisms, I’d welcome them because I know people only mean well, because maybe they’re for my improvement; except, of course, comments that really don’t make any sense. Let’s do away with the negativity and drama in life.” INQ