In the Philippines, loveteams are more than marketing pairings—they’re emotional investments. Fans follow these tandems on-screen and off, rooting for fictional romance to spill into real life. So when reality intervenes, the heartbreak is collective.

Here’s a look back at 12 iconic loveteams that once defined eras of Philippine entertainment—and why each ultimately ended.
Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza (AlDub) – Born from Eat Bulaga!’s “Kalyeserye,” AlDub became a national phenomenon. The loveteam’s chapter closed when Maine confirmed her relationship—and later marriage—to Arjo Atayde. Both Alden and Maine went on to successful solo careers.
Nida Blanca & Nestor de Villa – A 1950s staple from LVN Pictures, their witty rom-com chemistry defined the era. Off-screen, both chose non-showbiz spouses, ending the tandem naturally.
Gloria Romero & Luis Gonzales – Sampaguita Pictures’ golden pair, admired for classic elegance. Gloria married Juancho Gutierrez, while Luis married Vina Concepcion.
Nora Aunor & Tirso Cruz III (Guy & Pip) – The ’60s’ most beloved duo, whose chemistry powered multiple blockbusters. Nora married Christopher de Leon; Tirso married Lyn Enchausti.
Vilma Santos & Edgar Mortiz (Vi & Bot) – Marketed as Guy & Pip’s rivals, Vi & Bot delivered box-office hits. Vilma later married Edu Manzano (divorced) and then Ralph Recto; Edgar married Millet Santos.
Maricel Soriano & William Martinez (Taray & Kulit) – An ’80s Regal Films powerhouse. William married Yayo Aguila (later separated). Maricel married Edu Manzano (later divorced).
Manilyn Reynes & Janno Gibbs – From That’s Entertainment to hit films, their musical chemistry stood out. Janno married Bing Loyzaga; Manilyn married Aljon Jimenez.
Sheryl Cruz & Romnick Sarmenta – Another That’s Entertainment success story later developed by Seiko Films. Sheryl married a non-showbiz partner; Romnick married Harlene Bautista. Both eventually separated from their spouses.
Judy Ann Santos & Wowie de Guzman – Their Mara Clara pairing dominated the ’90s. Judy Ann married Ryan Agoncillo; Wowie married a non-showbiz partner who passed away in 2014.
Angelu de Leon & Bobby Andrews – TGIS favorites whose tandem ended when Angelu became pregnant with Joko Diaz’s child. She later married Wowie Rivera; Bobby married a non-showbiz partner.
Jolina Magdangal & Marvin Agustin – Teen idols from Gimik whose films became pop-culture touchstones. Jolina married Mark Escueta; Marvin remains single.
Bea Alonzo & John Lloyd Cruz – One of the most bankable tandems in Philippine cinema history. John Lloyd later had a family with Ellen Adarna (now separated). Bea is currently in a relationship with Vincent Co.
Kathryn Bernardo & Daniel Padilla (KathNiel) – After more than a decade of shared projects and a real-life relationship, Kathryn confirmed their breakup in 2023, choosing personal growth and independence. Both continue thriving individually.
Liza Soberano & Enrique Gil (LizQuen) – The pair transitioned away from the loveteam model as Liza pursued international opportunities. Their romantic chapter ended quietly, with mutual respect.
Nadine Lustre & James Reid (JaDine) – A defining duo of the 2010s, JaDine ended in 2020. Both cited personal growth and differing paths, remaining professional but separate.
Loveteams mirror fantasy—but artists are human. Careers evolve, priorities shift, and love takes different forms. While tandems may end, the work they created—and the joy they gave—remains. And that, perhaps, is the real forever.
