MUSIC LYF: TomDen thrills on new GMA Records album

When the smash pairing of Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo broke primetime TV convention to steal the hearts of millions of Filipinos, history was rewritten.  Not only did this unlikely twosome made their characters Eric and Vincent one of the most adored couples on national TV, their welcome arrival on the scene comes at a time when the hotly contested issue of gay marriage continues to rage on.  The My Husband’s Lover tandem confronted stereotypes to open up the overlooked idea that love is universal in whatever form it takes.  And it manifests even on their new record, TomDen.

Crafted with the intent to tell Eric and Vincent’s story in a format that is just as authentic on the screen, the duo exhibits a generous helping of romance through tender tunes under the guidance of seasoned producers and songwriters.

Opening track “One More Try” sets the tone throughout the album.  It shows the duo’s resolve underneath the delicate ballad, harmonizing and intertwining their warm vocals to complement the lovely musical arrangement.

Rhian Ramos gears up for a different kind of competition

GMANetwork.com chanced upon actress Rhian Ramos during the press conference of her upcoming primetime series on GMA, "Genesis," which is top-billed by Primetime King Dingdong Dantes. 

The actress shared how happy she is to be a part of the series, which began production barely a few months after her previous series “Indio” aired its grand finale. 

"Every one on the set of ‘Genesis’ does his job really well. Every one is helping each other. ‘Pag nasa eksena ka, you feel that you are in a team," said Rhian. 

Apart from working on the series, Rhian is also seriously preparing for a motor sports/car racing event on Saturday, October 12, at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga.  It is organized by a popular automobile manufacturer. Aside from Rhian, kapuso hunk actor Aljur Abrenica is also joining the competition. 

Primetime King Dingdong Dantes and his Queen Marian Rivera sit down for a "royal" interview with Startalk

Primetime royalties and real-life couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera sat down for a rare and exclusive interview with Philippine Star columnist and co-host of GMA's showbiz-oriented talk show "Startalk" Ricky Lo.

The royal couple of Philippine television talked about their travels abroad and their favorite places. They also shared their memorable vacation in Spain and the first meeting between Dingdong and Marian's Spanish dad.

Dingdong recalled trying to converse with Marian's dad in Spanish unaware that Marian’s old man is actually conversant in Filipino.

Lo asked Marian how Dingdong is as a boyfriend and an actor.

Roi Vinzon as a priest? Why not?

Actor Roi Vinzon, who plays as the homophobic retired army general Armando Soriano in the GMA primetime series “My Husband’s Lover,” was spotted this morning inside a studio at the GMA Network Center donning a habit (religious vestment) similar to the vestment worn by Dominican priests during the Spanish colonial era of this country’s history.

The action star has always been negatively typecast because of his past roles as drug lord, rapist, corrupt public official, criminal with a calloused conscience, among others.

Roi will be part of a yet confidential TV program, which will air this October.

JUAN MINUTE: 7 Things you’ll love about Dingdong Dantes

He has an “international” appeal.

With his washboard abs and his dashing looks, women not only in the Philippines but also all over the world find him very sexy. In fact, in 2008, the actor landed in E! Magazine’s 25 Sexiest Men in the World and he’s the only Filipino in that list, which by the way also includes David Beckham. Dingdong ranked 3rd.

He exudes a positive vibe.

Ask the people close to Dingdong and those who have worked with him in the past and they will utter only kind words about the matinee idol.  “Dingdong is such a kind-hearted person on and off-camera. He treats everyone on the set equally. He doesn’t discriminate. He is also very approachable and accommodating,” says a staff member of one of Dingdong’s previous TV series. “The actor is always there to inspire everyone around him despite any situation,” the staff member added.  In a TV interview, Dingdong’s girlfriend, actress Marian Rivera, shared how much she has changed for the better because of Dingdong. “Tinuruan niya ako maging patient, bawal ang maging negative,” she said.

Primetime King Dingdong Dantes renews contract with GMA Network

It is confirmed: Dingdong Dantes is still very much a Kapuso!

The actor, touted as Primetime King, officially renewed his contract with GMA Network today, September 14, making him an exclusive talent of the network for the next five years.  

The renewal, which took place at the Manila Polo Club this morning, ultimately debunked rumors of a possible transfer of the actor to another network. 

Present during the contract signing were GMA Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon, President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., EVP and CFO Felipe S. Yalong, Entertainment TV OIC Lilybeth G. Rasonable and Dingdong's manager Perry Lansigan. 

"Prinsesa ng Buhay Ko" brings inspiration and love on GMA

GMA Network makes the last quarter of the year an exciting time for all with the launch of its newest drama series that will forge a connection with the hearts of the Filipinos via PRINSESA NG BUHAY KO. It will replace Binoy Henyo beginning September 23 before 24 Oras.

Under the direction of Dondon Santos, Prinsesa Ng Buhay Ko’s storyline aims to inspire viewers to always have a positive outlook in life, and believe that with hard work and determination dreams can come true.

And to portray the characters of Princess and Nick in the series is one of the most formidable loveteams in the industry – Kris Bernal and Aljur Abrenica. After their memorable performances in Coffee Prince, Kris and Aljur reignite their onscreen tandem in Prinsesa Ng Buhay Ko which is the first program shot in full HD using DLSR cameras.

Introducing in this program is newest Kapuso Renz Fernandez who will play the role of Luis, Nick’s stepbrother who will fall in love with Princess.

Alden Richards not attracted to 'retokadas'

"I'm not really a fan of plastic surgery [aesthetic enhancement]. I am personally against it kasi it's like altering the appearance that God has given you."

This is what kapuso star Alden Richards declared in an interview on the set of the primetime series, "Mundo Mo'y Akin." The actor was asked if he would be attracted to someone who has undergone plastic surgery for aesthetic reasons.

In the series, Alden plays as Jerome, a poor but hard working student who strived to finish college and put up his own restaurant.  Jerome's best friend "Marilyn" (Louise delos Reyes) secretly admires him but thought that he won't ever look her way because she is not blessed with good looks.  In the course of the story, Jerome meets the beautiful Darlene (Lauren Young), daughter of a rich restaurant owner and grand daughter of Dona Charito (Ms. Jaclyn Jose) who looks down on Jerome and considers him a piece of trash. Although Darlene is beautiful, her character is not as lovely.  Marilyn, on the other hand, is the exact opposite of Darlene.

Carla Abellana signs with Universal Records

Kapuso Primetime Queen Carla Abellana inked a recording contract with Universal Records last August 29. The My Husband’s Lover star immediately proceeded to the recording of her first single – a cover of Toni Daya’s hit Kung Alam Mo Lang.

Carla expresses gratitude to everyone who made this project possible – as shown in picture (L-R) Talent Manager Arnold Vegafria, Record Producer Ito Rapadas, General Manager Kathleen Dy-Go, Carla, and UR Operations Manager Peter Chan.

Juan Minute: Binoy Henyo

Its fun to see a unique tandem of mother and son in a series especially when that kid is very smart, which is what Binoy Henyo brings to its audiences. The tandem of Agnes Santos (Sheena Halili) and Binoy (David Remo), is both cute and also lovable on screen even when the face problems.

If raising a child is difficult, having a gifted child is more of a challenge. Binoy, despite his age, proves to be resourceful yet keeps humble with his works. And like other kids, he is still fragile with his emotions especially he grew up never knowing his father. In the latest episodes, Binoy was able to meet his father Francis Sandoval (Luis Alandy) however he has a new family.

Everyone will also love characaters of Lola Chato (Nova VIlla), Josie (Rich Asuncion), Emily Sandoval (Gwen Zamora), Len-Len (Angel Satsumi), and the robot he built "Bibot".

Juan Minute: Enzo Pineda Celebrate Birthday With Fans and Kids

Kapuso star Enzo Pineda recently celebrated his birthday with fans and underprivileged kids in Alabang elementary school in Munintlupa. As one of the lead stars in the GMA Afternoon Prime show "Kakambal ni Eliana" and also an endorser of brands like Unisilver, Flawless and Bench, this Starstruck Avenger has been well received and has been a loyal Kapuso through the years.

Though being in a hectic schedule made him very thankful for what he has achieved right now. He also has an upcoming show, "Dormitoryo" which will air soon weekly, makes his calendars booked for tapings and also ready for his commitments with his brands. 

Enzo is not just brands and shows,he is also an ambassador for Children's Hour with fellow Kapuso stars. And as this would be a first time for his birthday, he is looking forward to have this kind of celebration every year.

Marian Rivera renews exclusive contract with GMA Network

Formally quelling persistent rumors of transferring to another network, Primetime Queen Marian Rivera renewed her ties with GMA Network, Inc. after signing another exclusive three-year contract with the Kapuso Network.

Present in the contract signing were GMA Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, GMA President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Marian, GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, President of All Access to Artists Rams David, GMA Entertainment TV's Officer-in-Charge Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA Films President Atty. Annette Gozon-Abrogar, GMA Vice President for Entertainment Marivin T. Arayata, GMA Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno, GMA Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara, and GMA Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Angela Javier-Cruz.

During the contract signing held at the Manila Golf & Country Club, Atty. Gozon was delighted that Marian chose to remain loyal to her Kapuso family, "Mahal namin siya hindi lang bilang artista kundi bilang tao dahil napakabait ni Marian. Malayo pa ang mararating ni Marian."

MUSIC LYF: "Spread The Love" With Kris Lawrence's New Album

It is official, that Kris Lawrence is the new Prince of R&B as the title was handed to him by his best friend Jay-R who is now the King of R&B. Another great news is that Kris Lawrence launched his new album under GMA Records after 4 years, and also a lot of up and downs he has been through.

Now a father, he is now more inspired to take on a new level with his career together with his girlfriend, Katrina Halili who is also making a comeback in the industry.  Kris Lawrence, as a kapuso has been very thankful for the opportunities that is given to him as he stood firm despite having a lot of competition in his genre. 

His new album, "Spread The Love" for him is a way which he can share his music and all originals songs which he mentions is his contribution to OPM. We will have this album soon on Music Lyf Listening Room soon!

RJ Padilla’s surprise ‘act’ in live show stuns fans

After Daniel Padilla, another member from the Padilla clan of actors is finding his way into the world of show business, and with his stance and manner of speaking that is typical of a “Padilla,” he is starting to show signs of being the next “Bad Boy of Philippine Television.”

Showbiz newcomer RJ Padilla is Robin Padilla’s nephew and Daniel Padilla’s half brother.  He is the son of Rommel Padilla, elder brother of Robin and Bebe Gandanghari.  

Recently, the 24 year-old kapuso actor astounded the audience at a regional show in Batangas City when he unexpectedly took his shirt off in the middle of his production number.  Members of the audience screamed at the sight of RJ’s – take note -- six pack abs!

In an interview after the event, RJ revealed that he did not plan to flaunt his chiselled torso but when he saw how encouraging the audience was, he decided to push his limits further and gave them one hell of a show!

Dennis Trillo deserves "Best Actress Award" for "My Husband's Lover"

There's no denying that more and more viewers are getting hooked on GMA's controversial primetime series, "My Husband's Lover" which stars Dennis Trillo, Carla Abellana and new kapuso Tom Rodriguez.

The said series is the subject of conversations not only among the Network's primary audience -- the mass market -- but also among the Louis Vuitton carrying socialites in Eastwood and The Fort.

A number of netizens have proposed online that Dennis Trillo be given an acting award but which one: Best Actor or Best Actress?

For the Love of Dogs and Frencheska Farr

Intimidating. That’s one of the first impressions that you can get from Frencheska Farr. The Kapuso artist is statuesque and gives out high-energy performances that have become her trademark. It’s a relief to know that the reluctance to approach the actress dissovles within a few  minutes of talking to her as you’ll find that she has a bright and happy aura around her. Frencheska was at GMA Network Studios when she tipped us in on her new show, “Binoy Henyo”. “Sinisimulan na namin yung taping. Makakasama ko dito sila Sheena Halili, Luis Alandy, Gwen Zamora, Rich Asuncio at Nova Villa,” she spilled.

Her excitement is doubled because her team in “Sunday All Stars” has emerged as the back-to-back victors in the musical-variety show. Frencheska was quick to point out that Tropang Trending’s Team Leader, Mark Bautista, was to be given most of the credit for the team’s onstage success. “Si Mark talaga ang nag-ayos ng lahat. Ilalatag niya samin yung concept niya tapos he’ll listen to our suggestions. Pero siya talaga ang may final say kung ano ang gagawin namin sa production number.” When asked if she is ready to take over the role of the team leader, the star was humble in her reply. “Hindi ko pa nakikita ang sarili ko as leader kasi si Mark, sobrang galing niya. Hindi rin naman importante sakin ngayon na maging leader agad basta sinisiguro ko na may input ako sa bawat production,” Frencheska said. Her team is now under the helm of Mark Herras and is well under way with their preparations for next Sunday’s show.

Impressing the Ladies Like Sef Cadayona

If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, what then is the route to a lady’s heart? It was just our luck to run into Sef Cadayona while he was taking a break from rehearsals at GMA Network Studios. The actor has his hands full with his shows Bubble Gang, Vampire ang Daddy Ko, Mundo Mo’y Akin and Sunday All Stars but still manages to keep romance alive with his current flame. “Ah madali lang yan,” Sef joked when we asked him for tips on getting the girl. “First, I think that humor goes a long way. I think sa girls you like a guy with a sense of humor kasi if the person you’re dating is putting in the effort to make you laugh, in a way pa-bibo siya sayo diba? Tsaka mahirap yun ah, paano kung fail tapos nagkatitigan lang kayo?”

Max Collins on Making Movies and Music Videos

Beaming as she sat down for a quick chat while taking a break from rehearsals for “SundayAll Stars”, Max Collins looked as fresh as ever. Casting a quick glance at her laid-back charm, you’d never guess that the actress was juggling an independent film, a musical-variety show and acting lessons. “I have too much on my plate right now,” she confessed. “It’s my first time to work on an independent film and I find that the attack is very different. Sa indie film kasi parang you have to be more subtle with your acting unlike sa teleserye na talagang big emotions dapat kung minsan. Siyempre iba rin kasi yung setting namin compared sa studio.”

Chef Boy Logro admits getting hooked on ‘My Husband’s Lover’

Chef Pablo “Boy” Logro, the lovable chef and host of the GMA cooking show “Kusina Master” says he is an avid viewer of the much-talked about TV series, “My Husband’s Lover.”

The chef admitted this to “My Husband’s Lover” cast member Kuh Ledesma, during the taping of Chef Boy’s week-long birthday special which will air beginning Monday, July 8.

The singer-actress was Chef Boy’s guest in one of the five special episodes taped last week.  Chef Boy even requested Kuh to sing her single “One More Try,” which serves as the official theme song of the controversial primetime series, which touches on the sensitive topic of homosexual/bisexual relationship.

Meanwhile, Chef Boy is going to give back to his fans during his birthday week.

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid opens up her home in Sarap Diva this Saturday

This Saturday in Sarap Diva, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid opens up her own home for all her loyal fans and viewers.

Wake up to an amazing morning with Regine as she prepares her husband’s favorite breakfast dish. Expect only the funniest banter between her and Ogie Alcasid.

One of her closest friends, actress/equestrienne/mother Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski will also be joining them.