Quiet stardom, loud dreams: Elias J TV on fame, family and finding his place

The name Elias J TV has been riding a powerful wave — viral songs, packed stages and a growing fan base that now stretches from the provinces to the country’s biggest arenas. Yet for the reggae singer-dancer, the feeling of being “famous” still hasn’t fully sunk in.

In a candid sit-down on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Elias admitted that despite the noise around him, his inner compass remains steady and unchanged.

“Sometimes, Tito Boy, I still ask myself if I’m really famous — because I don’t feel it,” he said. “People tell me I am, but in my heart and mind, it feels the same. Nothing has changed. I can’t really say I’m famous.”

That grounded mindset was tested — and affirmed — when he became one of the surprise guest performers at the Sexbomb Girls reunion concert. The moment was historic, but the preparation was anything but.

“We came straight from Canada,” Elias recalled. “We arrived around 10 p.m. and went on stage right away. I had no rehearsal — it was all on the spot.”

A quick demo from a staff member and barely 20 minutes of practice in a room later, Elias found himself rehearsing inside the legendary Araneta Coliseum.

“I practiced for about 20 minutes, then we headed to Araneta for rehearsal,” he said. “When I first saw it, I was in awe. I didn’t realize how huge it was. It was my first time there, and I was so excited. I told myself, whatever I do elsewhere, I’ll do the same here.”

Despite the exposure and invitations, Elias remains rooted in the province.

“Probably not,” he said when asked if he plans to relocate to Metro Manila. “I’m staying in the province. But if there’s work here, I’ll definitely come.”

Known for tracks like “Puhon” and “Lipad,” Elias is also quietly checking off personal milestones — especially for the people who matter most. While he stops short of calling himself wealthy, he acknowledged that his life has undeniably changed.

“Right now, Tito Boy, I wouldn’t say I’m rich,” he shared. “I have money, but not ‘rich-rich.’ I’m comfortable.”

That comfort has translated into concrete acts of love. Elias proudly shared that he was able to bring his mother home from Bahrain and ease his father out of hard labor.

“I was able to bring my mom home from abroad — from Bahrain,” he said. “And my dad, I don’t let him work too much anymore.”

He even encouraged his father to simply enjoy life.

“I’m happy seeing my dad now — he’s gained weight. My mom too,” Elias smiled. “I told them, ‘Whatever you want, just tell me, and I’ll give it to you.’”

Building a family home for his parents was another dream fulfilled, while life remains stable for his partner, wife-and-manager Abegail Cariquitan and their child, Apollo.

“Apollo and Abegail are still at home for now,” he said. “I have plans, but I’ll keep those to myself for the moment.”

Elias also reflected on how his relationship with Abegail has grown alongside his career. Where there were once jealousy and misunderstanding, there is now trust.

“Before, she’d get upset when I came home late or when fans kissed me,” he admitted. “Now she understands my work better.”

As for marriage, Elias keeps his answer open-ended — hopeful, but unhurried.

“Maybe that time will come,” he said simply. “But for now, we haven’t really talked about it.”

For an artist whose songs soar and whose stages keep getting bigger, Elias J TV remains refreshingly anchored — measuring success not by fame alone, but by the quiet victories of family, freedom and staying true to himself.