Veteran television host Joey de Leon addressed recent speculations about a feud between his show, “Eat Bulaga,” and the ABS-CBN noontime show “It’s Showtime.” In a clear statement released on his Instagram page, de Leon clarified that the perceived animosity between the two programs is unfounded and emphasized a message of unity and friendship within the industry.
De Leon explained that his and co-host Tito Sotto’s recent comments, which were interpreted as being directed at “It’s Showtime,” were actually aimed at the behavior of certain social media users and content creators. He pointed out that these comments were misconstrued and stressed that “It’s Showtime” has been a long-standing neighbor in the noontime slot, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect rather than competition.
Additionally, de Leon celebrated the longevity and success of “It’s Showtime,” which is nearing its 15th anniversary, underscoring his respect for the show and its achievements. He urged the public not to pit the two shows against each other, highlighting that both programs aim to entertain and serve the Filipino audience, not to engage in rivalry.
The clarification comes in the wake of rumors suggesting financial difficulties for “Eat Bulaga,” which de Leon and Sotto have firmly denied. They have gone as far as to announce the release of the show’s financial statements to quell any rumors about the show’s stability.
In his message, de Leon reiterated his affection for “It’s Showtime” and its cast, affirming that any harsh sentiments were not directed towards them but towards malicious actors within the social media landscape. He wrapped up his statement by saying, “We love you. We are not fighting, and we are all just doing our job,” reinforcing a spirit of camaraderie in the entertainment industry.