IN THE SPOTLIGHT: ‘It’s Showtime’ viral moments through the years

“It’s Showtime” celebrates its 15th year on air this October and it continues to show that it is not only a source of entertainment but a cultural touchstone that reflects the Filipino audiences. Amid host Vice Ganda’s recent statement that there is an ongoing “demolition job” against the show, here’s a look back on the show’s viral moments that have sparked conversations and shaped its legacy as one of the Philippines’ most beloved noontime shows.

The ‘Pastillas Girl’ phenomenon

At the peak of the Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza’s tandem, aka AlDub, in 2015 that originated in the Kalyeserye of “Eat Bulaga,” “It’s Showtime” also introduced its own viral bit featuring Angelica Jane Yap, aka “Pastillas Girl.” At the time, viewers labeled her as the latter show’s version of Mendoza’s Yaya Dub.

Yap went viral after she filmed a video where she narrated the steps to making pastillas (milk candies). In one of the episodes of “It’s Showtime,” she shared that her ex-boyfriend left her for her best friend, which prompted Vice Ganda and the rest of the hosts and audience members to help her search for her “Pastillas Boy” as a way of her moving on. 

Though Pastillas Girl’s attempt to find her love team didn’t quite replicate the AlDub success, it delivered unique content that appealed to the loyal audience of “It’s Showtime.” 

The ‘Magpasikat’ annual competition 

Every year, during its anniversary, “It’s Showtime” hosts engage in a striking talent showdown called “Magpasikat,” where they deliver performances to honor their loyal viewers. This segment has produced countless viral moments throughout the years. 

Last year, one of the trending presentations was when hosts Vhong Navarro, Jugs Jugueta, and Teddy Corpus paid homage to the late legendary Filipino comedians through artificial intelligence. This year, “It’s Showtime” will air its “Magpasikat” special from October 21 to 26.

‘Hashtags’ group popularity 

The all-male dance group Hashtags became a hit among young audiences after their debut on “It’s Showtime” in 2015. The group’s dance performances, led by members-turned-actors Ronnie Alonte and McCoy de Leon, often trended on social media.

In 2017, one of its members, Franco Hernandez, died in a drowning incident in Davao Oriental. At the time, it became the most talked-about topic on X (formerly Twitter).

The GMA partnership

Given the loss of ABS-CBN’s franchise and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the show faced a few setbacks that forced its management to tie up with various networks to broadcast its content. Last year, “It’s Showtime” began airing on GMA’s GTV, symbolizing the end of the long-standing rivalry between the two networks, which marked a historic moment in Philippine television.

Vice Ganda and Ion Perez’s ‘Cake Icing’ incident 

In 2023, a sweet but playful gesture between partners Vice Ganda and Ion Perez became controversial, resulting in complaints and a temporary suspension of the show by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

The viral moment shows Perez holding a cake and using his fingers to taste the icing. With his eyes closed, he slowly licks the icing off his fingers. He then approaches Vice Ganda, who takes some of the icing from Perez’s fingers with his own before tasting it.

The MTRCB asserted in a Facebook post that the scene was a violation of Section 3c of Presidential Decree No. 1986 that states they have the power to “approve or disapprove, delete objectionable portions from and/or prohibit the importation, exportation, production, copying, distribution, sale, lease, exhibition, and/or television broadcast of the motion pictures, television programs, and publicity materials,” portions that are deemed “immoral, indecent, contrary to law and/or good customs, injurious to the prestige of the Republic of the Philippines or its people.”

At the time, netizens argued that the moment did not show “malice,” but merely the public’s judgement or prejudice against the members of the LGBTQ+. 

Vice Ganda’s candid moments 

Vice Ganda, the show’s frontman, has consistently trended for his witty remarks and honest takes on controversial topics. His playful interactions with guests, fellow hosts, and even audience members have gone viral numerous times, especially those moments with her co-host Anne Curtis, which are labeled as fan favorites.

The show is also known for its heartfelt conversations during competitions like “Tawag ng Tanghalan” or “Miss Q&A,” which often bring out stories of perseverance and struggle. These moments have trended for their emotional depth as they resonated with the viewers.