JOEY DE LEON CALLS ATASHA MUHLACH “NOT TALENTED” — AGA AND CHARLENE LEFT SPEECHLESS AS EXPLOSIVE COMMENT SPARKS OUTRAGE ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA!

In a stunning and controversial moment that has sent shockwaves across Philippine entertainment and social media, veteran host and comedian Joey de Leon has come under fire for a blunt remark he made about Atasha Muhlach, daughter of celebrated actors Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez. De Leon’s statement, calling Atasha “not talented,” has not only surprised fans but also left her parents—two icons of Philippine cinema—reportedly speechless and hurt.

The incident has fueled a storm of criticism online, with netizens accusing the longtime host of being unreasonably harsh and dismissive of a young talent just beginning her career.

The Controversial Statement

The comment was made during an off-air moment on the set of E.A.T., Joey de Leon’s current noontime show alongside fellow TVJ legends Vic Sotto and Tito Sotto. According to multiple insiders and a leaked audio clip that quickly spread online, Joey was overheard saying, “She’s not that good. Maganda, oo. Pero hindi magaling.”

While the statement was not made during the live broadcast, its tone and content have been described as “cutting” and “unexpected” by those who were present. One crew member stated, “It felt personal. People were shocked. Some didn’t know whether to laugh or stay quiet.”

Atasha Muhlach: A Rising Star

Atasha Muhlach, who had recently joined Eat Bulaga during its revamp phase, was viewed as a refreshing new face on the noontime TV landscape. With her poise, intelligence, and background in performing arts, many believed she was following in the footsteps of her iconic parents.

While she’s still learning the ropes of hosting and dealing with live television, fans and colleagues have praised her for being gracious, humble, and willing to grow. For many, Joey de Leon’s comment felt like a direct attack on someone still trying to find her place in the industry.

Aga and Charlene: Silent but Affected

Though neither Aga Muhlach nor Charlene Gonzalez has publicly responded to the incident, insiders close to the family say they were deeply hurt by the remark.

“They were shocked,” one source revealed. “Aga, in particular, couldn’t believe someone with Joey’s stature would say that about his daughter—especially in such a blunt and dismissive way.”

Charlene, known for her grace and composure, reportedly advised Atasha to stay silent for now and focus on her path rather than get drawn into showbiz controversies.

“They’re heartbroken but they’re protecting Atasha. They know this is part of the business, but it still stings,” the source added.

Public Backlash Against Joey de Leon

Once the clip began circulating on TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook, public reaction was swift—and furious. The hashtag #RespectAtasha began trending, along with #CancelJoeyDeLeon, as fans, celebrities, and even ordinary netizens criticized the veteran host for what they described as bullying and gatekeeping.

One netizen wrote: “She’s just starting out, and this is what she gets? Joey de Leon should be nurturing young talent, not tearing them down.”

Others pointed out Joey’s long history of controversial remarks and questioned why he continues to have a platform despite repeated offenses. Some fans even called for a formal apology to Atasha and her family.

Celebrities Speak Out

Several personalities in the entertainment industry also weighed in, many of them rallying around Atasha.

Anne Curtis tweeted: “We all start somewhere. Everyone deserves the chance to grow without being publicly humiliated.”

Vice Ganda took to Instagram Stories to say: “No one gets to decide someone’s worth on stage but the audience. Let’s be kind to beginners.”

Even respected host Boy Abunda offered a calm but powerful message during his nightly talk show: “Talent grows. What a young person needs most is support, encouragement, and time—not judgment.”

Is It Time for a Cultural Shift?

This latest controversy involving Joey de Leon has reignited conversations about how veteran personalities in Philippine showbiz treat younger talents. Critics argue that the industry still tolerates outdated standards of hazing, harsh mentorship, and on-air shaming in the name of “showbiz tradition.”

Social commentator Lourd de Veyra wrote in a viral Facebook post:
“What we witnessed wasn’t just an offhand remark—it was a symptom of a deeper problem in showbiz culture, where seniority sometimes becomes a shield for arrogance.”

He added, “Respect for elders is important, but so is respecting the dreams and journeys of the young.”

Atasha’s Response: Grace Under Pressure

Though Atasha has yet to issue a statement, she posted a short but meaningful quote on Instagram:
“Let your work speak. Silence is not weakness. It’s strength with a purpose.”

Her quiet dignity in the face of public criticism has won her even more support from fans and peers alike.

A close friend of hers shared, “She’s handling this better than most people would. She’s not angry—she’s just more determined than ever to prove herself.”

The Network’s Reaction

The production team behind Eat Bulaga has yet to release an official statement, but internal sources suggest that the management is “very aware” of the public’s outrage and is closely monitoring the situation.

There are whispers that a meeting was held between TVJ and the network executives to discuss damage control, particularly considering the show’s reputation and image among younger viewers.

Whether Joey de Leon will apologize remains uncertain. Historically, he has stood by his words, no matter how controversial.

Conclusion

The firestorm surrounding Joey de Leon’s harsh words toward Atasha Muhlach is more than just another showbiz scandal—it’s a reflection of a shifting landscape in Philippine entertainment, where the audience demands accountability, empathy, and evolution.

While Joey de Leon may not feel he owes anyone an apology, the court of public opinion is increasingly leaning toward a culture of kindness and growth—especially when it comes to young talents with so much ahead of them.

As for Atasha, the storm may have hit hard, but if anything, it seems to have only made her stronger. And in showbiz, that resilience may just be her greatest talent of all.