The recent announcement by ABS-CBN on the move of ‘It’s Showtime’ to GMA Network’s GTV has sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment industry. The transfer comes amidst the upcoming show of comedy icons Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon occupying the noontime slot of TV5.
Vice Ganda, main host of ‘It’s Showtime,’ addressed the current happenings surrounding the show in a 20-minute YouTube video uploaded on his channel.
In the heartfelt video, Vice Ganda disclosed that he first learned about the decision to discontinue airing ‘It’s Showtime’ on TV5 after his successful concert when he spoke with ABS-CBN executive Cory Vidanes. Despite the news, the host expressed that he did not harbor any anger or resentment, as the happiness from his successful concert overshadowed the impact of the show’s time slot change.
“What else can hurt us? We’ve reached rock bottom already, so ano pang mas sasakit doon? Nung gumising ka isang araw, na walang-wala, nagkaroon ng isa, nagkaroon ng dalawa, nagkaroon ng tatlo, ngayon nabawasan ng isa, parang hindi ako masyadong nasakatan, nalungkot ako. Mas masakit sa akin yung makita yung mga staff, mga tao ng Showtime na sobrang nalulungkot at sobrang natataranta at nalilito, nabugbog na tayo noh, nalibing na tayo nang buhay,” Vice shared emotionally.
Reports say that ‘It’s Showtime’ was offered a 4:30 p.m. slot on TV5 in favor of Tito,Vic and Joey’s show, but the program respectfully declined the offer, wanting to keep its usual timeslot.
Vice Ganda clarified that he holds no grudges or ill feelings towards TV5. According to him, TV5 made them happy by providing them with a platform for ‘It’s Showtime.’
“Nakaramdam kami ng pag-diriwang at kasiyahan dahil sa tulong nila, and that will forever be one great reason to be grateful to them,” Vice expressed sincerely.
‘It’s Showtime’ has been airing on TV5 at noon for a year, with its contract expiring on June 30. On June 20, it was officially announced that the show would make the transition to GTV starting July 1, maintaining its noontime slot. Meanwhile, the upcoming show of Tito, Vic and Joey on TV5 is yet to be named.
Vice Ganda also clarified that they are not at war with any noontime show, emphasizing that healthy competition is essential in the industry. “Everyone is competing for their show, everyone is competing for their audience – dahil kung walang kumpetisyon, mababagot ka din, pag wala kang katapat, walang nagpapakaba sayo, nakakabagot yun,” Vice explained.
Expressing gratitude towards his management and GMA Network for the new platform extended to ‘It’s Showtime,’ Vice Ganda concluded the video with a heartfelt appreciation for the opportunities they have received.
