MANILA, Philippines — For decades, John Prats was a mainstay in front of the camera, transitioning from a beloved child star in Ang TV to a leading man and versatile character actor. However, the actor recently revealed that his true calling wasn’t found in the spotlight, but behind the director’s monitor—a shift he initially found “offensive.”
During a press conference for the upcoming Valentine’s Day concert Champions of the Heart, Prats shared the vulnerable story of how he reinvented himself as one of the country’s most sought-after concert directors.
An “Offensive” Start Prats recalled a pivotal meeting with ABS-CBN executive Lauren Dyogi around 2016 or 2017. When Dyogi suggested he try directing, Prats admitted he was hurt. “I felt really offended. I felt like, ‘Why offer directing? Does no one want to see me on-cam anymore?’” he said.
However, a 2016 Coldplay concert in Manila changed everything. Prats describes the experience as spiritual, feeling a deep connection to the production that lasted for months.
The Shift to Purpose Prats’ directorial debut came in 2017 with Moira Dela Torre’s music video for “Malaya.” What started as a fun side project quickly evolved into a full-blown career. Since then, “Direk Pratty” has taken the helm for major shows, including Jaya’s At Her Finest, Jessi’s Zoom in Manila, and Kim Soo-hyun’s Philippine fan meet.
Prats views his new career through a lens of faith. “I let God use me to be His extension, His creativity,” he explained. “My purpose now is as a director. I’m happy where I am because it’s not about me anymore; it’s about the artists and the audience.”
Champions of the Heart His latest project, Champions of the Heart, features a powerhouse lineup including Martin Nievera, Sofronio Vasquez, Jed Madela, Jona, and Klarisse de Guzman. Prats expressed excitement about working with such collaborative artists, noting that his creative process involves “visualizing” the show together with the performers.
“I believe that creativity shouldn’t be planned,” Prats added. “It’s so nice to work with artists who are involved.”
The Champions of the Heart concert is set for February 14 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. For Prats, the show is more than just another production—it’s the latest chapter in a journey from actor to a director driven by what he calls his “God-given purpose.”