Over the years, Philippine television has been united by programs that bring joy, hope, and laughter to every home. One of the biggest pillars of the midday entertainment program is the program “It’s Showtime,” which has become synonymous with the name Vice Ganda. The “Unkabogable Star” is not just a simple host; he has become the heart and soul of the program, an icon who has inspired the audience to laugh and fight the challenges of everyday life. But in recent days, one big question has been bothering the minds of millions of viewers: Where is Vice Ganda? And most of all, will he finally abandon the stage that gave him unparalleled brilliance?
Vice Ganda’s “Missing in Action” (MIA) has not only caused sadness among his supporters; it has also sparked intense fears for the future of “It’s Showtime.” There are rumors in various corners of social media that the comedian’s unexpected disappearance from the noontime show has a direct impact on the program’s ratings. Vice’s power and appeal are undeniable. For many viewers, watching It’s Showtime is like chatting with a close friend, and that close friend is Vice. Due to his absence, some solid supporters have openly expressed their decision not to watch until the one and only “Mimi” returns. This is a clear proof of how much influence and value a Vice Ganda’s presence has in the success of any project he is in charge of.
To shed some light on this burning issue, popular talent manager and showbiz vlogger Ogie Diaz, who is known to have been Vice’s former caretaker and knows him well, has spoken out. In his latest update, Ogie admitted that he too has been bombarded with questions and messages from concerned fans looking for answers. Although many have approached him, he explained that he cannot fully answer every detail, but he has revealed some information that has shed some light on the situation.
Ogie Diaz first discussed health issues. According to the information he gathered, one of the main reasons for Vice’s absence was an alleged swelling of his foot. In an industry where physical strength is an investment—especially with the daily giggling, dancing, and standing for hours—any kind of illness is a serious matter that should be taken seriously. It’s not new for artists to experience “burnout” and physical fatigue, and it seems that the Unkabogable Star has reached a point where his body needs adequate rest.
Aside from the health issue, a big bombshell has been released regarding the comedian’s potential new project. Rumors are now circulating that Vice Ganda will reportedly be part of the judging table for the popular reality show “Drag Race Philippines.” This rumor arose after the news of the passing of one of the show’s prominent figures, Jiggly Caliente (who according to rumors was the reason for the vacancy). If true, the transfer or addition of this kind of responsibility is a big step in Vice’s career. Drag Race is a prestigious platform that represents the art, talent, and voice of the LGBTQ+ community—an advocacy that Vice Ganda has long championed. However, is this reason enough for him to leave the daily joy he brings to the audience?
Another angle that Ogie Diaz thoroughly explained was the emotional and mental needs of an artist like Vice. According to Ogie, sometimes a comedian really needs to “recharge.” “That’s right. I know your grandma. When she’s really exhausted from Showtime, all she’ll do is swear,” the talent manager jokingly stated with a serious observation. In the world of television, particularly in a program that operates under the strict guidelines of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), there are so many limitations on what can be said and done. There are words, thoughts, and styles of humor that are not freely expressed in mainstream media. Because of this, Ogie added that when Vice feels too “exhausted,” he returns to his original source—the comedy club. There, he can freely vent out, express his true feelings, and connect with the audience without any filter. Taking the Vice Comedy Club stage again is his form of therapy, a mechanism to keep his personality intact despite the exhausting demands of his job.
It is also not possible to rule out the fact that there were just a series of occasions that required his time. It was also mentioned that Vice Ganda may have just been on a birthday leave and it just so happened to coincide with the observance of Holy Week, a time when most Filipinos and celebrities prefer to go home to their families to reflect and rest. When you think about it, such a break is only fitting for someone who tirelessly brings joy to the entire country.
But the most important question awaiting an answer from Ogie Diaz’s lips is whether Vice Ganda really has any plans to leave It’s Showtime for good. In an assured and heartfelt response, Ogie said: “No way. It’s too bad. No. It’s his blood and sweat.” In fact, Vice is not only a host but also the business unit head of the said program. This means that It’s Showtime is not just a job for him; it’s a family, a home, and a legacy that he has nurtured, built, and preserved for more than a decade. No sane leader would simply abandon his team in times of trial.
Although Ogie admitted that the ratings are dropping due to the lack of the “Vice Ganda factor,” he insisted that Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, and the other hosts are doing their best to support and promote the program. “Of course, people are used to Vice being there. That’s right, Vice is incomparable. He will come and go on It’s Showtime, he can’t stand it either,” the veteran manager emphasized. The public’s feeling of deprivation is just another proof that Vice Ganda’s presence is irreplaceable.
Ultimately, the story of Vice Ganda’s temporary absence is not a story of surrender, but a story of being human. Behind the thick makeup, big smiles, and fancy clothes is an individual who is tired, hurt, and needs time to heal and recharge. The ratings slump is a temporary challenge, because when the Unkabogable Star returns with full strength and renewed inspiration, the It’s Showtime stage will surely light up again. Until that day, the audience continues to wait, not just for a comedian, but for a friend who can lighten the heavy flow of life.
