ABS-CBN Gives Vice Ganda Unprecedented Power Over ‘It’s Showtime’ — The Bold Move That Has Everyone Wondering What Happens Next!

Manila, Philippines — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Philippine entertainment industry, ABS-CBN has reportedly given top comedian and television host Vice Ganda unprecedented creative and executive power over the long-running noontime variety show It’s Showtime. This bold, game-changing decision comes after months of speculation about behind-the-scenes shake-ups, ratings wars, and shifting alliances in the competitive world of noontime television.

While ABS-CBN has yet to release a formal press statement, several sources within the network have confirmed that Vice Ganda will now have substantial control over the direction, content, and future of It’s Showtime — not just as its main star, but as its newly appointed Creative Director and Executive Co-Producer.

The unexpected move has prompted excitement, praise, criticism, and curiosity. Is this the beginning of a new golden era for It’s Showtime? Or could it signal turbulent changes that risk the show’s long-standing chemistry?

Let’s dive into the full story behind this headline-grabbing development.

A History of Reign: Vice Ganda and ‘It’s Showtime’

Since joining It’s Showtime in 2011, Vice Ganda has become the undeniable face of the program. His unique mix of wit, humor, authenticity, and emotional relatability helped transform the variety show into a national sensation — even helping the show survive numerous controversies and competition from rival programs like Eat Bulaga and Lunch Out Loud.

Vice’s presence is credited with drawing millions of daily viewers and dominating online trends almost every broadcast. Whether through comedic banter with co-hosts, heartfelt speeches to contestants, or viral moments with live audiences, his influence has always been massive.

But until now, Vice’s role had been limited to on-screen talent — a megastar, yes, but not one who held any formal decision-making power over the program’s structure or management. That’s what makes this recent development so groundbreaking.

What “Unprecedented Power” Means

According to a high-level source within ABS-CBN’s production arm, Vice Ganda’s new role as Creative Director will allow him to make key decisions regarding:

• Segment development and approval
• Casting of co-hosts and judges
• Branding and marketing strategies
• Content tone and scripting
• Overall program direction, including theme months and special events

In short, Vice will no longer be just a star performing in the spotlight — he will be shaping the spotlight itself.

The source elaborated:

“ABS-CBN is giving Vice the space to evolve It’s Showtime with his vision. They trust his instincts and understand how deeply he connects with Filipino audiences.”

This move also reportedly involves an ownership stake in the production company handling It’s Showtime, making Vice not only an executive decision-maker but a financial stakeholder in the show’s future.

Why Now? The Real Reasons Behind the Bold Decision

Industry insiders believe this power shift is ABS-CBN’s strategic response to several growing pressures:

1. Fierce Competition — With Eat Bulaga undergoing its own massive revamp, and other noontime shows aggressively courting audiences, the network needed to innovate fast — and boldly.
2. Vice’s Star Power — With nearly unmatched charisma and influence, Vice is not only a bankable asset but a visionary in tune with digital trends, cultural shifts, and viewer emotions.
3. Creative Tensions — Rumors had been swirling for months about creative clashes between long-time producers and on-screen hosts. Giving Vice power may be ABS-CBN’s way of resolving internal conflict while rejuvenating the show.
4. Audience Evolution — Filipino viewers today are more diverse, progressive, and socially aware. Vice Ganda — openly queer, emotionally intelligent, and digitally savvy — represents this new generation of consumers.
5. 

Reactions from Co-Hosts and Fans

Reactions have been mixed — but overwhelmingly passionate.

Anne Curtis, one of Vice’s closest friends and longest-running co-hosts, posted on Instagram:

“A new chapter begins! Proud of you, Mare. You’ve always had the heart for the people. Now you have the pen, too.”

Jugs and Teddy shared a behind-the-scenes photo with Vice, captioned:

“Bossing na talaga! But same kulit. Showtime forever!”

However, some fans have expressed concern about the balance of power.

“Vice is amazing, but I hope this doesn’t change the dynamic. Part of what makes Showtime special is the group chemistry,” one viewer commented on Twitter.

There are also rumors that a few current segment producers and long-time staffers are uneasy about the change, fearing a shift away from their creative voices and long-standing traditions.

What Will Change on the Show?

Already, changes are being hinted at. Insiders claim that new segments — including an LGBTQ+ mini-series, a behind-the-scenes documentary component, and fan-led contests — are in development. There’s also talk of revamping the “Miss Q and A” segment to include more progressive themes and celebrity guest judges.

Vice is reportedly exploring ways to integrate TikTok content into live shows, expand YouTube-exclusive episodes, and possibly launch an international segment for It’s Showtime fans abroad.

In addition, the show is planning to host regular town hall episodes where live audiences can suggest segment ideas, vote on themes, and even become part of the cast — a radical departure from traditional variety show formats.

What This Means for ABS-CBN’s Future

This bold gamble could mark a shift in how networks operate — putting more power in the hands of performers who understand audiences firsthand.

Entertainment columnist Ricky Lo (via his legacy blog) wrote:

“This is the new normal. Networks must adapt. They can’t afford to run on old systems while the world demands authenticity, speed, and impact.”

It also signals ABS-CBN’s commitment to fighting back after years of political and regulatory battles. Giving someone like Vice Ganda — loved, polarizing, and undeniably powerful — creative control sends a message: They’re not backing down. They’re reinventing.

What Happens Next?

All eyes will be on It’s Showtime in the coming weeks. Will the show soar to new heights under Vice Ganda’s direction? Or will the weight of such power create unforeseen tensions?

Regardless of outcome, one thing is certain: this is one of the most daring moves in Philippine television history. It marks a new era — where stars don’t just shine, they lead.

And with Vice Ganda at the helm, one can expect nothing less than brilliance, bravery, and maybe a little bit of glitter.

Vice Ganda once said:

“Laughter is powerful. But so is change.”

Now, he holds both. And the show, as always, must go on.