History
2009–2012: As a pre-noontime show
''It's Showtime'' was announced on October 7, 2009, when ABS-CBN registered the show's trademark and copyright. The show's trailer for the premiere was then released and it premiered as a talent competition program on October 24, 2009, under the name ''Showtime'', airing Mondays to Saturdays before ''Wowowee'', replacing ''Game Ka Na Ba?, Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba?'', airing as lead-in for the network's noontime shows. The original hosts include Vhong Navarro, Anne Curtis, Kim Atienza, Jugs Jugueta and Teddy Corpuz, with Vice Ganda as the resident ''hurado'' (unevictable judge). In the third season, the show added former ''hurados'' Billy Crawford and Karylle as hosts. In the first four seasons, ''Showtime''s original competition format was that three groups, each made up of 2 to 25 members (with no age limit) perform a single performance, either a dance and/or song number. Before the performance, one group member is given 20 seconds to make an introduction before ending with the phrase "It's Showtime!". After the group's performance, the ''hurados'', with the help of the studio audience, rate the group from 1 to 10. The group with the highest average score from the ''hurados'' wins the competition. The daily winner performs again to compete in the weekly finals. The winning weekly finalists advance to the monthly finals. The winning monthly finalists get the chance to complete in the grand finals. In the wildcard week, selected groups from the weekly and monthly finals are invited back to compete again for a slot in the grand finals. Aside from the talent competition, ''Showtime'' also featured mini-segments that offers cash prizes to the studio audiences.2010–present: As a noontime show
In October 2010, ''Showtime'' became a noontime show, serving as the lead-in program for ''Pilipinas Win Na Win'' which was pushed back to an early afternoon timeslot which lasted until February 11, 2011. On February 12, 2011, the program returned to its original timeslot to give way for ''Happy Yipee Yehey!'' and at the same day, Billy Crawford and Karylle joined the show. On January 28, 2012, ''Showtime'' aired a special episode named "Thank you, Showtime" to end its two-year competition format with an impartial farewell. It then went on hiatus as the program prepared to become a noontime show again for the second and current time to replace ''Happy Yipee Yehey!''. The drama series ''Mundo Man ay Magunaw'' and ''Kapamilya Blockbusters'' movie block took over the timeslot of ''Showtime'' from January 30 to February 3, 2012.2012–present: ''It's Showtime''
The show became a noontime show again after one year and its one-week hiatus with the new name ''It's Showtime'' on February 6, 2012, where it aired on its new timeslot at 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, Mondays to Saturdays, replacing ''Happy Yipee Yehey!''. The program was simulcast on Studio 23 and CgeTV's website during the first months of the relaunch. ''It's Showtime'' brought back its original competition format as a special segment while launching new segments. It retained all of its main hosts while adding Jhong Hilario, Ryan Bang, Coleen Garcia and Eric Tai, Eric "Eruption" Tai. In January 2016, Amy Perez and Mariel Rodriguez joined the program as hosts. In May 2017, Nadine Lustre and James Reid (actor), James Reid were added as co-hosts. In October 2018, ''It's Showtime'' launched its own YouTube channel ''Showtime Online Universe''. Three digital programs premiered on the channel: ''And I Thank You'' with ''Miss Q & A'' segment grand winner Juliana Parizcova Segovia; ''Hashtag Roadtrip'' with the Hashtag members; and ''Donna What To Do'' with ''Funny One'' segment season two grand winner Donna Cariaga. The ''Showtime Online Universe'' received a Silver Creator Award after getting 100,000 channel subscribers in January 2019. Before the end of 2019, Crawford, Garcia, Tai, Reid, Lustre, Atienza, and Joey Marquez had already departed from the show.Second decade (2020–present)
On March 10, 2020, ''It's Showtime'' temporarily Behind closed doors (sport), stopped admitting a live audience in response to the government's declaration of a public health emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. Following the government's announcement of COVID-19 community quarantines in the Philippines, a community quarantine in Metro Manila to curb the spread of COVID-19 on March 15, 2020, the show's production was temporarily suspended. During this period, ''It's Showtime'' broadcast a combination of episode replays and live episodes conducted via Zoom Video Communications, Zoom. As part of the network's temporary programming changes, the program's timeslot was shortened on April 29, 2020. Subsequently, on May 5, 2020, ''It's Showtime'', along with all other ABS-CBN programs, ceased broadcast operations. This action was taken in response to the National Telecommunications Commission's issuance of a cease and desist order to ABS-CBN's free-to-air stations, citing the expiration of the network's 25-year franchise. On June 13, 2020, the show resumed its broadcast with a shortened 150-minute timeslot on pay television network Kapamilya Channel, owned and operated by ABS-CBN Corporation. The show is also simulcast on Jeepney TV and streams online on Facebook and YouTube via ''Showtime Online Ü'' and ''Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live''. After serving as ''KapareWHO'' cast member and as resident dancer respectively, "Kuya Escort" Ion Perez and "Ate Girl" Jackie Gonzaga were promoted to co-hosts of the show. On September 28, 2020, Kim Chiu, a guest co-host from the previous years, have been officially added to the show as a regular host. On October 10, 2020, ''It's Showtime'' celebrated its return to free-to-air television via A2Z (TV channel), A2Z under airtime leasing between ABS-CBN and religious broadcasting, religious broadcaster, ZOE Broadcasting Network. However, director Bobet Vidanes left the show in November 2020 after working as the show's main director for eleven years. Boyet Baldemor takes responsibility for the directorial duties of the show's continuation. On March 16, 2021, Vice Ganda announced at ''It's Showtime's'' segment ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' that the show will move to a new studio soon. From March 18 to April 10, 2021, ''It's Showtime'' temporarily suspended their live productions due to the surge of COVID-19 cases in the Greater Manila Area caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant. The show resumed new episodes on April 12, 2021, airing three pre-taped episodes (this includes past Holy Week Episodes) before resuming their live episodes on April 15, 2021. On April 12, 2021, Jhong Hilario temporarily left the show to take care of his partner and newborn baby. On May 29, 2021, following the launching of the show's new segment ''"ReINA Ng Tahanan"'', the program has been co-directed by John Prats. From August 7 to 21, 2021, ''It's Showtime'' temporarily aired from Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort in Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga while Metro Manila was placed under Enhanced community quarantine in Luzon, enhanced community quarantine in light of another COVID-19 surge caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant. On October 2, 2021, Ogie Alcasid temporarily joined ''It's Showtime'' as guest co-host while Vice Ganda, Kim Chiu, Karylle and Ion Perez were on temporary leave. On November 13, Alcasid became a main host of ''It's Showtime''. Meanwhile, Jon Moll was named as the show's new permanent director, officially replacing Bobet Vidanes. From January 6 to 15, 2022, ''It's Showtime'' temporarily suspended their live productions on a 10-day break due to the surge of COVID-19 cases in the country caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. The show resumed their live broadcast on January 17, 2022. On May 28, 2022, Anne Curtis returned to ''It's Showtime'' after two years of hiatus. One week later, on June 4, 2022, Jhong Hilario returned to the show by disguising as a ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' contestant, surprising all the hosts. A female dance segment, ''Girl on Fire'', aired from October 2022 to February 18, 2023, with Jackie Gonzaga taking her first role as the main host. A matchmaking segment called ''Expecially for You'' premiered on December 4, 2023. Meanwhile, the classic Showtime segment ''It's Showdown'' premiered on October 30, 2023, followed by new games such as ''MeCHOOSE-MeCHOOSE'' on November 18, 2023, and ''Act Lang 'To'' on January 6, 2025. The revival and Kalokalike: Face 4, fourth season of the impersonation segment ''Kalokalike'' premiered on September 2, 2024, and a game show titled ''Throwbox'' premiered on September 7, 2024. The Showtime Sexy Babe season 2, second season of the beauty pageant competition ''Showtime Sexy Babe'' and mystery game show ''Hide and Sing'' both premiered on January 20, 2025; ''Sine Mo 'To'' later returned on March 4, 2025. Segments involving the ''Showtime Kids'' premiered starting in 2023, beginning with ''Isip Bata'' on February 20, 2023, which marked the debut of the ''Showtime Kids'', followed by the revival of ''Mini Miss U'' on June 19, 2023, which ended on October 30, 2023. ''KaraoKids'' premiered on January 6, 2024, ''Showing Bulilit'' on April 29, 2024, ''Bata-Bata Pick!'' on July 30, 2024, ''Hulanino'' on January 27, 2025, and ''Ansabe'' on February 11, 2025.2022–2023: TV5 simulcast
On July 6, 2022, according to a report from MJ Marfori of TV5 (Philippine TV network), TV5's flagship newscast ''Frontline Pilipinas'', it was announced that ''It's Showtime'' would have a back-to-back collaboration with TV5's noontime show ''Tropang LOL'', formerly known as ''Lunch Out Loud''. ''Tropang LOL'' aired at 11 am until 12:45 pm, serving as a pre-programming to ''It's Showtime,'' which aired in a shortened timeslot from 12:45 pm to 3 pm. This is the latest ABS-CBN-produced program to be simulcast on TV5 alongside ''ASAP (TV program), ASAP Natin To'', ''FPJ: Da King'' movie block, ''Magandang Buhay'' and ABS-CBN's ''Primetime Bida'' weeknight evening block. On July 16, 2022, coinciding with their simulcast debut on TV5, the program refurbished its title card and opening theme song, as well as having a return to live studio audience after two years of suspension from March 9, 2020, making the first variety show on Philippine TV to do so after two years. While Studio 3 was on undergoing renovations, the show temporarily utilized Studio 10, which is used for ''ASAP (TV program), ASAP Natin 'To'', until July 23 when they returned to its home studio two days later with a brand new club-themed set. On May 1, 2023, following the conclusion of ''Tropang LOL'' after nine months, ''It's Showtime'' returned to its original 12:00 noon timeslot with a three-hour airtime. Not long after, TV5 (Philippine TV network), TV5 announced its co-production venture with Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon where they would air their noontime show later known under the Placeholder name, placeholder title ''E.A.T.'' (now replaced by ''Eat Bulaga!'') on the noontime slot previously occupied by ''It's Showtime.'' TV5 offered the 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm time slot to ABS-CBN for ''It's Showtime'' which the latter respectfully declined. ABS-CBN and TV5 then separately announced that ''It's Showtime'' would end its simulcast on TV5 on June 30.2023–2024: GTV simulcast
On June 20, 2023, ABS-CBN and GMA Network announced on their respective social media accounts that ''It's Showtime'' would simulcast through GMA's sister network, GTV (Philippine TV network), GTV beginning on July 1. A contract signing between the executives of ABS-CBN and GMA was held at Seda Hotels, Seda Vertis North on June 28, with former guest co-hosts Iya Villania and Robi Domingo hosting the said event. From September to November 2023, the simulcast of ''It's Showtime'' on GTV was temporarily limited to 2 hours every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday as it made way for the network's live broadcast of NCAA Season 99. ''It's Showtime'' temporarily ceased airing from October 13 to 27, 2023, to serve a 12-day suspension imposed by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). In its place, ''It's Your Lucky Day'' was aired. Upon its return on October 28, ''It's Showtime'' aired from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm every Monday to Friday and 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm every Saturday. Its timeslot was later changed to 12:00 noon to 2:30 pm from Monday to Saturday. GTV's simulcast silently ended on December 31, 2024, as ''It's Showtime'' continues to air on the main GMA Network channel and Advanced Media Broadcasting System, AMBS-owned All TV.2024–present: GMA and ALLTV simulcast; return to former frequencies
On March 18, 2024, during the show's airing, a mysterious teaser popped out before commercial break stating: ''"Good News, Madlang People, Abangan!"'' (). Later on, ABS-CBN and ''It's Showtimes social media accounts posted a video featuring a reveal that would take place on air via Facebook and YouTube. Two days later, a media event where ABS-CBN and GMA Network signed a contract announced that ''It's Showtime'' would extend its simulcast to the latter's main channel, as well as on GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Network (company), Kapuso Stream. The contract was signed at GMA Network Center Studio 7 that afternoon, with Villania and Domingo reprising their hosting roles from the previous contract signing event. Because of this, the program's simulcast on Jeepney TV ended on April 5, 2024. ''It's Showtime'' debuted on GMA Network on April 6, 2024, while retaining its simulcast on its sister channel GTV (Philippine TV network), GTV (until December 31, after one year and six months). It took over the timeslot of its former rival ''Tahanang Pinakamasaya'', TAPE Inc.'s final noontime program on GMA during its 29-year run on the network. As a result, its opening theme reverted the pre-2020 lyrics but retained the additional lyrics after its move following its debut. On June 17, 2024, the show silently began its simulcast on All TV, marking its return to DZMV-TV, channels 2 and 16 in Mega Manila and regional channels previously held by ABS-CBN until 2020. This occurred nearly two months after ABS-CBN Corporation and All TV's owner, Advanced Media Broadcasting System, signed content agreements to air ABS-CBN programs on All TV.2025: Sale of studio to Ayala Land
On February 27, 2025, ABS-CBN announced in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange that it will sell most of the Broadcast Center to Ayala Land for redevelopment, pending regulatory approval, while retaining 1.4 hectares of the property (primarily the ELJ Communications Center) where it will consolidate its operations along with its already built soundstages, post-production and production facility at the ABS-CBN Soundstage, Horizon PEZA IT Park in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. The studio of ''It's Showtime'' is among the studios included in the sale.Hosts
;Current hosts *Vhong Navarro *Anne Curtis *Vice Ganda *Teddy Corpuz *Jugs Jugueta *Karylle *Jhong Hilario *Ryan Bang *Amy Perez *Ion Perez *Jackie Gonzaga *Kim Chiu *Ogie Alcasid *MC "Muah" Calaquian *Lassy Marquez *Cianne Dominguez *Darren EspantoFeaturing
; Current co-hosts * Bela Padilla * Barbie Forteza ; Also featuring * It's Showtime Kids (since 2023) ** Argus Aspiras (from ''Isip Bata'') ** Arianah Kelsey "Yes Girl" Lasam (from ''Mini Miss U'' 2023; grand winner) ** Briseis Ericka Quijano (from ''Mini Miss U'' 2023) ** Enicka Xaria Orbe (from ''Mini Miss U'' 2023) ** Imogen Cantong (from ''Isip Bata'') ** Jaze Capili (from ''Isip Bata'') ** Kiarah Ayesha Bajeta (from ''Hulanino'') ** Princess Kathryn "Kulot" Caponpon (from ''Isip Bata'') ** Stephen Paul Rustia (from ''Showing Bulilit'') * Baby Dolls ** Mary Delle Cascabel (from ''Girl on Fire''; grand winner) ** Chole Florendo (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Kim Tubiano (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Ina Ortega (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Eriel Reyes (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Arianne dela Cruz (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Jelai Ahamil (from ''Girl on Fire'') ** Jubilyn "Juby" Sabino (from ''Showtime Sexy Babe'') ** Johaira Moris (from ''Showtime Sexy Babe'')''Showtime Online Ü'' hosts
The following are the current hosts of the show's online show, ''Showtime Online Ü'': * AC Soriano * Anne Tenorio * Anthony Castillo * Eris Aragoza * Jannah Alanise Chua * Jennifer Catayong Nicki Morena * JM Dela Cerna * Lorraine Galvez * Mackie Empuerto * Marielle Montellano * Sheena Belarmino * Wize Estabillo * Zeah Nestle PalaShow segments
As of June 16, 2025, the show currently airs three segments: ''KidSONA: Songs of the Nation Address'', ''Step... in the Name of Love'' and ''Tawag ng Tanghalan season 9, Tawag ng Tanghalan: Ika-9 na Taon''.Annual/Current segments
''Magpasikat''
''Magpasikat'' () is the annual talent competition for all the hosts of ''It's Showtime''. It is usually held either a week before the show's anniversary date, October 24, or during the week itself (although the 2021 to 2023 editions were held in November). The performances are evaluated by a special panel of ''hurados'' (judges).KidSONA
''KidSONA: Songs of the Nation Address'' is a singing and guessing game show that premiered on May 5, 2025. The game is inspired by both the annual State of the Nation Address (Philippines), State of the Nation Address and the former ''FUNanghalian'' segment ''KaraoKids''—of which KidSONA can be considered a sequel—as well as the American children's media franchise Kidsongs and the Japanese children's playpark brand ''Kidzooona''. This segment is a part of the parlor game segment ''FUNanghalian''. It currently consists of two rounds, the first round where the teams to score two points each are declared winners (later reduced to one with the first team to reach two points proceeding to the jackpot round). Beginning May 8, 2025, a jackpot round is included immediately after, in which three selected kids recite their designated songs before the players make their final guesses. The twist is that the Showtime Kids, dressed in formal attire, recite their song lyrics while standing behind a podium styled after the presidential address.Step... in the Name of Love
''Step... in the Name of Love'' is a dating game segment that premiered on April 7, 2025, replacing ''Ansabe''. The segment was supposed to air on March 3, 2025, set to replace ''Showtime Sexy Babe 2025''. Auditions for this segment began on February 26, 2025, and are open to aspiring contestants aged 18 and above who are single. Applicants must bring a companion and share their story about why they remain single to this day. This segment is the successor to the reality dating game show ''Expecially for You''. This segment was initially shelved for unknown reasons and was replaced by the revival of ''Sine Mo 'To''. In ''Step... in the Name of Love'', a contestant seeks to find a new date with the assistance of a companion. Each pair consists of a "matchmaker," who is the contestant aiming to find a new match, and their "Hype Bestie," a companion or best friend who guides them throughout the process. Three potential matches, usually of the opposite gender, are then introduced. After each round, the potential matches may either "step up" within four steps (the higher the step, the greater the interest) or "step down," indicating disinterest or a mismatch in criteria. If a potential match steps down to the "X" line, they are deemed a "mismatch" and are automatically disqualified from being matched with the contestant. If one of the matches steps on the highest line in the final step, he or she is automatically considered the matchmaker's match; however, if two or all three matches are on the same level of line after all rounds, the matchmaker must name his or her match.Tawag ng Tanghalan
''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' is an amateur singing competition that aired on the ABS-CBN network from 1953 to 1972. It was first revived on March 8, 1987, and lasted until November 26, 1989. It was once again revived as a segment of the show on January 2, 2016, and has since produced fourteen seasons: eight regular seasons, two kids seasons, and four special seasons. ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' is the show's longest-running segment, airing every day since its return in January 2016. The ninth season, titled as ''Ika-9 na Taon'', premiered on April 28, 2025, two days after the finale of Tawag ng Tanghalan: All-Star Grand Resbak season 2, ''All-Star Grand Resbak 2025''.Former segments
The following segments were aired in the show in the past years:Former ''FUNanghalian'' segments
Hide and Sing
''Hide and Sing'' was a mystery game show in which a celebrity guest plays detective, attempting to determine which of three completely covered-up singers is the true celebrity singer. This segment debuted in October 2020 until May 2021. It returned on January 20, 2025, and ended on March 8, 2025. The game is played in two rounds: the first round, called "''KanTaguan''," where all the singers perform a single song together, and the second round, named "''Tagong Kampeon''," where each singer performs their individual song. During each round, the co-hosts, celebrity guest, and their chosen studio audience member may interrogate the singers, with their voices altered when they speak normally. After both rounds are completed, the celebrity guest and their audience companion must choose the hidden singer they believe to be the celebrity singer of the day. If they guess correctly, the studio audience member receives . Additionally, if they identify the celebrity singer by name, they will receive an extra . If they fail to guess, the studio audience member will still receive a gift pack from the show.''Sine Mo 'To''
''Sine Mo 'To'' (abbreviated as ''SMT'') is a sketch comedy segment that mocks a variety of issues, unique storylines, and characters. Every day, at least two to three audience members are chosen to perform in the skits. At the end of the segment, these participants are awarded a cash prize based on their performance. The segment ran from 2012 to 2017 and was eventually moved to the show's YouTube account as ''Sine Mo 'To: Online Na 'To!'' hosted by a variety of Hashtags group members. The second revival started on March 4 to 8, 2025, replacing an unknown and unnamed segment that was supposed to air the previous day, and was replaced by ''Tawag ng Tanghalan: All-Star Grand Resbak 2025''. The segment then returned on March 24, 2025. This segment is currently on-hiatus and possibly return in the future episodes. Each story typically lasts a week and consists of six episodes, unless otherwise stated.Quiz Vee
''Quiz Vee'' was a quiz segment that premiered on March 4, 2025, wherein Vice Ganda asks trivia questions to the ''Madlang People'' about general information and current events. The audience gets prize money (usually ) if the audience answers their assigned question correctly. This segment usually serves as a filler gap when a segment ends earlier than expected.Showtime Sexy Babe 2025
The beauty pageant competition ''Showtime Sexy Babe'' returned for its second season in 2025, with auditions opening on January 11. This competition is open to girls, transgenders, and bisexuals between the ages of 18 and 28, who are confidently beautiful regardless of their appearance, body type, size, or flaw. This segment debuted in December 2021, and Sam Coloso won the season. It is also notable for Cianne Dominguez, who was a semifinalist and later became one of the show's main hosts; Jubilyn Sabino and Johaira Moris, who were both grand finalists, later became members of Showtime Baby Dolls. The segment returned on January 20, 2025, and ended on March 1, 2025, with Zeah Pala as the season's grand winner.''And the Breadwinner Is...''
''And the Breadwinner Is...'' was a game show that is similar to the segment ''TrabaHula'' and is named after the And the Breadwinner Is..., family comedy-drama film of the same name by Vice Ganda that also served as a promotion for the film, debuted on November 25, 2024, replacing ''Kalokalike: Face 4'', and ended in January 2025.''Kalokalike: Face 4''
Season four of the impersonation talent show ''Kalokalike'', dubbed as "Kalokalike: Face 4", premiered on September 2, 2024, and ran until November 23, 2024. This marked the return of the segment almost ten years since its last season in 2013. At the end of the season, Vyan Dela Cruz, who impersonated singer KZ Tandingan, was crowned the fourth "Ultimate Kalokalike", besting 15 other grand finalists. ''Kalokalike'' had already aired three seasons since its debut in 2013. The competition had three winners: Jonathan Garcia as actor Christopher de Leon, Jennifer Catayong ( Nicki Morena) as rapper Nicki Minaj, and Daniel Aliermo as ''It's Showtime'' host and comedian Vice Ganda.Throwbox
''Throwbox '' was a game show that premiered on September 7, 2024. In "Throwbox," players have the opportunity to "go back in time" by answering trivia questions about different decades, ranging from the 1970s to the 2010s. The game consists of two parts: an elimination round and the main gameplay. In the elimination round, a group of ten players each selects one of ten colored boxes. The objective is to pick the correct box containing a star and confetti (later replaced by a picture of a specific ''It's Showtime'' host). The player who selects this box advances to the main round and instantly receives , while those who do not select the correct box receive for participation. Before the main game begins, the advancing player must set aside half of their as savings and risk the other half as the initial stake. The hosts then introduce ten boxes, each featuring a question related to a specific year and a corresponding cash amount. For example, a box marked "1989" may be worth . The player is required to choose five out of the ten boxes. Each box contains a question with three multiple-choice answers. If the player answers correctly, the cash value of the box is added to their bank; if incorrect, the same amount is deducted. After playing and answering questions from five boxes, the contestant has a chance to either double, triple, halve, or even lose their banked money in the "Super Box" round, which features a different question and year category. Before this round begins, the contestant must choose between two options: "''Doble o Kalahati''" (Double or Half) or "''Triple o Sawi''" (Triple or Nothing). In "''Doble o Kalahati''", a correct answer doubles the contestant's bank, while an incorrect answer reduces it by half. In "''Triple o Sawi''" a correct answer triples the bank, but an incorrect answer results in losing all the money. The "Super Box" question contains four multiple-choice answers.''Expecially for You''
Expecially for You (stylized as "eXpecially for you" and ''"EXpecially for You"'') was a Reality television, reality Matchmaking, dating segment that premiered on December 4, 2023, and ended on September 21, 2024, replacing the dance competition segment ''It's Showdown''. The segment's name is a pun on Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan's song Especially for You, as well as the word "ex," which refers to a previous relationship. In rare instances, if a searcher's ex isn't on the show, they may be joined by a close friend or relative. This segment was open to people of all genders aged 18 and up. Auditions were open to: any couple can audition for the show, but they must have broken up and be on good terms; and to audition as a searchee, any civilian who is single and "ready to mingle" regardless of gender can do so. The segment was replaced by ''Kalokalike: Face 4''.It's Showdown
''It's Showdown'' was a dance competition that premiered from October 30 to December 2, 2023, replacing ''Mini Miss U''. The competition features the so-called "Classic Showtime" format: dance groups from around the Philippines battle and show off their dance skills in the "Showdance Arena" vying to become the segment's grand champion. It is open to all dance groups: all boys, all girls, all LGBTQ+, or mixed, and all ages 16 and up. At the end of the competition, Fresno Style PH was crowned the grand champion, with United Alliance in second place, and AMK Rock Nation coming in third place. The segment was replaced by ''Expecially for You''.Mini Miss U
''Mini Miss U'' was a beauty pageant competition for kids aged 8 years old and below. ''Mini Miss U'' was first aired on January 6, 2020, but was cancelled following the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines, COVID-19 pandemic and the Shutdown of ABS-CBN broadcasting, ABS-CBN shutdown. Auditions for this segment was held starting on June 7, 2023. The segment then returned on June 19, 2023 and ran until October 28, 2023, where Arianah Kelsey Lasam was named the winner. She later became a member of ''Showtime Kids'' together with Enicka Xaria Orbe and Briseis Ericka Quijano who also became grand finalists after their respective stints in the competition.''Showtime Online Ü'' segments
Reception
Accolades
Ratings
''Showtime'' debuted on its pre-noontime slot on October 24, 2009, with a 14.0% national TV rating based on Kantar Media Philippines, and then moved on the noontime slot from October 2010 to February 2011. Its immense popularity ended the dominance of talk show ''Sis (talk show), SiS'' on its timeslot. GMA Network replaced ''SiS'' with ''Diz Iz It!'', a competition similar to ''Showtime'', but it was cancelled after five months. ''Showtime'' first grand finals held in July 2010 received a 35% national TV rating, beating the 8.9% rating of ''Diz Iz It!'' and 13.7% of ''Eat Bulaga!'' The second grand finals held in December 2010 scored a 23.4% national TV rating against ''Eat Bulaga!'' 17.4%. The third grand finals in May 2011 also delivered a rating of 21.3% versus ''Eat Bulaga!'' 17%. ''Showtime'' again moved to the noontime slot for the second and current time on February 6, 2012, after one year and the show's one week hiatus (now using its current name ''It's Showtime''), with a 13.6% national rating. The episode received an overall 16.3% rating when the viewership numbers from Studio 23 were added. Initially placing behind ''Eat Bulaga!'', the show's rating peaked to a 20.9% national rating during the finals of the "''Bida Kapamilya''" segment and its third anniversary week-long celebration. The finals of the ''Kalokalike'' segment in June 2013 garnered a 26.8% national TV rating, leaving ''Eat Bulaga!'' and ''Wowowillie'' with 13.2% and 2.8% ratings, respectively. The finals of the segment's second iteration posted a 21.6% national TV rating, once again beating ''Eat Bulaga!'' 15.8% and ''Wowowillie'' 2.6%. ''It's Showtime'' continued its dominance in the noontime slot with its fourth anniversary week special held from October 21–26, 2013. The program faced heavy competition in 2015 when the sixth anniversary special only scored a 10.2% national TV rating, four times behind Eat Bulaga's 40.1%. This is due to the ''Tamang Panahon'' special (and the build-up before that), which served as the climax of the then-popular ''Kalyeserye'' segment which featured AlDub. ''It's Showtime'' quickly regained its prominence on its time slot when ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' launched in 2016. The program garnered a 33.6% national TV rating during the singing competition's first grand finals, over Eat Bulaga's 11.7%. ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'' continued its winning streak during its second-season finale when iControversies
A series of statements by guest judge Rosanna Roces against certain groups during an episode in January 2010 attracted controversy for perceived insensitivity towards teachers. ABS-CBN relieved Roces of her jury duty as a form of self-regulation, but Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) placed the program under a 20-day preventive suspension on January 11, 2010. A placeholder variety show titled ''Magpasikat'' was aired in lieu of ''Showtime''; ''Magpasikat'' had essentially the same talent show format as ''Showtime'' except that the competing groups are composed of celebrities. The suspension only lasted for six days after the Court of Appeals of the Philippines, Court of Appeals issued a 60-day temporary restraining order against the MTRCB's suspension. ''Showtime'' eventually returned on air on January 19, 2010. In March 2010, Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, MTRCB ordered a total one-month suspension of the program because of the incident, including the replacement program ''Magpasikat''. The MTRCB also directed the filing of criminal charges against Florida Tan, ABS-CBN vice-president for programming, and other officers "responsible for the violation." Bong Osorio, head of ABS-CBN's Corporate Communications said that the suspension was not yet final and that they were seeking appeal before the Office of the President. The variety show later on won the case because the MTRCB had not presented new arguments that would justify a reversal of its previous resolution. The program's dating game segment ''Nasaan Ka, Mr. Pastillas?'' drew ire from netizens and women's group Gabriela Women's Party, Gabriela for "pimping" Angelica Yap, popularly known as Pastillas Girl. The program responded to Gabriela's statement, saying that it is "hurtful and offensive to women like Angelica who has done nothing wrong but to share her story with the hope of getting another shot at love." It also clarified the segment's intent of helping Yap find love and recover from a failed relationship. MTRCB summoned the show's executives to give a list of suggestions on how to improve the segment. On September 4, 2023, the MTRCB suspended the noontime show over an alleged obscene act by Vice Ganda and Ion Perez in a July 25 episode of the "Isip Bata" segment. However, the show continues to air as their network filed a reconsideration of a motion, motion for reconsideration. Atty. Juan Ponce Enrile, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel, criticized what he perceived as an immoral action on part of Vice and Ion. On September 28, the MTRCB denied the motion for reconsideration filed by ABS-CBN and GMA Network, allowing the networks to appeal to the Office of the President of the Philippines, Office of the President within 15 days. On October 6, both GMA and ABS-CBN decided not to appeal to the Office of the President, leaving the program suspended from October 14 to 27. Another variety show, ''It's Your Lucky Day'' temporarily took ''It's Showtimes timeslot during the suspension period. Teacher Tony Dizon issued an apology after mistakenly stating that Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was the first female president of the Philippines instead of Corazon Aquino on the show's trivia segment ''Throwbox'' on September 19, 2024. Acknowledging the backlash and accusations of boastfulness after sharing his academic achievements, Dizon expressed surprise at the mistake, noting the pressure of performing live. In a Facebook video, he emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes and urged the public to understand the challenges of being in the spotlight. Dizon concluded by stating that while criticism is inevitable, how one responds defines their character. The segment later went on hiatus and eventually never returned in future episodes. On the February 28, 2025 episode of the beauty pageant competition ''Showtime Sexy Babe 2025'', contestant Heart Aquino admitted having limited knowledge about the Commission on Elections (Philippines), Commission on Elections (COMELEC) when asked for her message to the poll body, prompting concern from host Vice Ganda. At 20 years old, Aquino also revealed she has not yet voted, drawing public attention. In response, COMELEC Chairperson George Erwin M. Garcia, George Garcia announced that Aquino was invited to the COMELEC office in Manila for voter education. He emphasized that "many young Filipinos may also lack awareness of the poll body's role, and stated that it is COMELEC's duty to address this gap." Garcia expressed hope that educating Aquino could inspire others to become more informed voters. As a response to the incident, ''It's Showtime'' re-introduced its quiz segment called "Quiz V" on March 3, 2025, aiming to promote general knowledge and awareness among its audience.Soundtrack
Showtime: The Album
A soundtrack album composed of five music tracks featuring the ''It's Showtime'' hosts was released in October 2010.Track listing
All songs produced by DJ M.O.D.''Isip Bata'': The Album
''Isip Bata'': The Album is a compilation album of eleven music tracks featuring the members of the kiddie group "''Batang Cute-Po''" (then called Showtime Kids) of the show's children's segment "''Isip Bata''", consisting of Argus Aspiras, Imogen Cantong, Princess Kathryn "Kulot" Caponpon, Jaze Capili, and Lucas Landicho was released on November 3, 2023. The first five singles off the album (Totoy Bibbo, Clap Clap Clap, Dalandan Shake, Pamela, and Learn the 1, 2, 3) were first released on October 13, 2023.Track listing
International versions
The show spawned its first international franchise in 2019, titled ''It's Showtime Indonesia'', which premiered from March 25, 2019, until May 9, 2020, on MNCTV. ''It's Showtime'' became ABS-CBN's first non-narrative format to be franchised by another country.See also
* ''Tawag ng Tanghalan''Notes
References
External links
* {{Afternoon variety shows in the Philippines 2009 Philippine television series debuts 2000s Philippine television series 2010s Philippine television series 2020s Philippine television series ABS-CBN original programming Dance television shows Filipino-language television shows It's Showtime (TV program), Kapamilya Channel original programming Obscenity controversies in television Television controversies in the Philippines Television productions suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic Television series by ABS-CBN Studios