New year, new rising stars to stan! Now is the moment to watch out for the next big names as 2025 begins. These up-and-coming talents are demonstrating that Gen Z is that generation, whether they’re killing it on screen, taking centerstage or offering fashion icon realness.
All set to meet your next favorite? Let’s begin.
After going viral on TikTok, Sofia “Fyang” Smith won as the grand winner of Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11 with an astounding 30.66 percent of the fan vote.
And she didn’t stop there. In the “Wherever You Are” music video by Regine Velasquez, the rising star is already making waves (literally) by wearing pearls, tulle, and sequins in a mermaid-core fantasy.
The MV is already number one on YouTube with over 1.3 million views, and fans anticipate that this is only the beginning of Fyang’s takeover of the entertainment industry. Is anyone prepared for her next move?
Jarren Garcia has come to rule the music industry; he is not just another reality show ex-housemate. In addition to releasing his self-titled debut album via StarPop to start the year, he will be joining Myx as a new VJ.
And performing? His next target is that. He teased, “I really want to try acting.” And frankly? The multi-hyphenate period is what we’re here for.
From the PBB house to a full-on Prince Charming moment, JM Ibarra is giving leading man energy. He starred alongside Fyang in “Wherever You Are,” giving effortless heartthrob vibes in a dreamy blue fit.
But beyond the swoon-worthy looks, JM has skill. He is a former TV broadcasting prodigy, he’s keeping his career options open. Acting? Hosting? Maybe both? Either way, he’s not stepping out of the limelight anytime soon.
Here comes the Next-Gen Muhlach. Andres is forging his own way, even though his last name may sound familiar (hello, Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez). Making waves in Ang Mutya ng Section E, the 23-year-old Scorpio king is demonstrating that he is more than simply showbiz royalty and that he has a wide range. A fun fact, too? At Brent International School, he excelled at basketball before turning to acting. From athlete to actor? The pipeline is real.
Meet Rabin Angeles, also known as Yuri Hanamitchi from Ang Mutya ng Section E. He’s the guy with the bold fiery red hair who looks like a boss.
With his boy-next-door charm and growing filmography, we’re betting that the 20-year-old will soon go from being a supporting character to a leading man soon.
Alert: a new girl has arrived in town! Here, Ashtine Olviga demonstrates that she is that girl. From her beginnings as a P-pop idol to her role as Jayjay in Ang Mutya Ng Section E, she is a multifaceted queen.
Let’s face it, she is a star in the making, and her innate acting skills make her an absolute must-see.
If you’re a fan of the University Series, you’re probably familiar with Hyacinth Callado from Chasing in the Wild as Elyse. However, did you know that she also sings “Aabutin Ang Tadhana,” the theme song for the show?
Hyacinth, who was born and raised in San Francisco, is more than simply an actress and musician; she is an advocate about racism, social justice and even stood up for global issues like Black Lives Matter and Palestine. A voice that matters, talent, and beauty? It is something fans adore seeing.
It’s obvious that Maki is that artist if you’ve been listening to “Saan” and “Dilaw” on Spotify. Saan, his first EP, has already amassed over 40 million streams and is charting all over the world. Last December, he performed a heart-pounding, three-hour love letter at his first solo concert at the New Frontier Theater, introducing his signature dreamy, feels-heavy music to fans across the nation. This alt-pop icon is only beginning.
Esnyr Ranollo started as the relatable TikTok bestie, but now? He’s out here acting alongside the phenomenal loveteam DonBelle in How To Spot A Red Flag on Viu.
From YouTube skits to mainstream media domination, Esnyr is proving that content creators can thrive in film and TV too. Fans can’t wait to see what other roles he lands next.
PBB Gen 11 finalist Kai Montinola is a bonafide singer and actor in addition to her recognition from the reality show. She even played the younger Anna, played by Julia Montes, in a cameo in Saving Grace.
Kai is a rising sensation to watch because of her exceptional vocals and acting ability.