Quick Links:
- Matet De Leon
- Zaijian Jaranilla
- Billy Crawford
- Xyriel Manabat
- Andrea Brillantes
- Julie Vega
- Vilma Santos-Recto
- Janice de Belen
- Niño Muhlach
- Ice Seguerra
Remember those adorable faces that dominated Philippine TV and movie screens years ago? From heartwarming teleseryes to unforgettable films, these Filipino child stars captured our hearts with their raw talent and charm. But what happened after the spotlight dimmed on their childhood careers?
Let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and discover what these former Filipino child stars are up to in 2025. Some have remained in showbiz, others have ventured into different paths, but all have fascinating stories to tell!
1. Matet De Leon: From Child Star to Mompreneur
Then: The daughter of superstar Nora Aunor, Matet charmed audiences in 1980s films like “One Day, Isang Araw,” where her natural acting ability shone through despite her young age, making her one of the most promising Filipino child stars of her time.
Now:
- Currently balancing acting and business as she appears in supporting roles in TV series like “Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law” and “Black Rider” in 2024
- Runs a successful gourmet tuyo (dried fish) business that has gained popularity on social media
- Happily married with children, often sharing family moments on Instagram
Matet’s journey shows how former child stars can successfully transition to adult roles while building a life outside the entertainment industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit has allowed her to create a sustainable business alongside her acting career.
2. Zaijian Jaranilla: Filipino Child Star Who Inspired a Nation
Then: He captured hearts nationwide as the miracle-working orphan Santino in the hit series “May Bukas Pa” (2009-2010), becoming one of the most recognizable child actors of his generation.
Now:
- Successfully transitioned to teen and young adult roles, recently playing Ding in “Darna” (2023) and Gio Illustre in “Senior High” (2024)
- Renewed his contract with ABS-CBN in 2023, cementing his place as one of the network’s valued talents
Zaijian’s ability to evolve from cute child star to serious dramatic actor proves his staying power in the industry. Critics have praised his mature performances, showing that his talent has only deepened with age.
3. Billy Crawford: Filipino Child Star to International Sensation
Then: Before becoming a household name as a host and performer, Billy started as a child actor in late 1980s films like ‘Lost Command‘ and ‘Sandakot Na Bala‘ (both 1988), showcasing his early talents as one of the promising Filipino child stars.
Now:
- Currently building his international presence with several upcoming shows in France for 2025, including a debut performance at the prestigious L’Olympia in Paris scheduled for May 29, 2025.
- According to a recent interview, he has been working on a new album that he plans to promote internationally, starting in France.
- Living in Paris with wife Coleen Garcia and their son Amari
- Recently made headlines after taking legal action against creators of a false death hoax
Billy’s transformation from child actor to international entertainer makes him one of the Philippines’ most successful entertainment exports. His cross-cultural appeal and versatility have allowed him to build a global career that spans acting, hosting, and music.
4. Xyriel Manabat: Award-Winning Talent
Then: She captured hearts as young Agua/Bendita in “Agua Bendita” (2010) and Anna in “100 Days to Heaven,” displaying acting skills well beyond her years.
Now:
- Starred in recent hit series including “Dirty Linen” (2023) as Antonette and “Senior High” as Roxy
- Set to appear in upcoming TV Series “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (TBA)
- Continues to collect acting awards, building on her impressive collection of FAMAS and PMPC trophies
Xyriel’s seamless transition from child roles to more complex characters demonstrates her remarkable range as an actress. Unlike many child stars who struggle with the transition to adult roles, she has consistently delivered powerful performances that showcase her growth as an artist.
5. Andrea Brillantes: Young CEO
Then: She rose to fame playing the titular role in the 2013 remake of “Annaliza” and later cemented her status as one of the most popular Filipino child stars with her villainous turn as Marga in “Kadenang Ginto.”
Now:
- Made headlines in early 2025 by leaving Star Magic to be managed by Shirley Kuan (who also handles Bea Alonzo)
- Currently stars in “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” (2025), one of the highest-rated shows on Philippine television
- Became the youngest celebrity CEO at 19, with successful ventures in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands
Andrea represents the new generation of Filipino child stars who leverage their fame to build business empires. Her savvy career moves and business acumen have made her a role model for young aspiring entertainers who want to control their destiny in the industry.
6. Julie Vega: Filipino Child Star with a Timeless Legacy
Then: Known as the “Shirley Temple of the Philippines,” Julie captured hearts in “Mga Mata ni Angelita” (1978) and the iconic series “Anna Liza” (1980-1985).
Legacy:
- Though she passed away tragically at 16 from complications of pneumonia in 1985, her impact on Philippine entertainment remains powerful
- Her unfinished series “Anna Liza” continues to influence Philippine television, with elements of its storytelling visible in modern teleseryes
- Annual tributes and retrospectives keep her memory alive for new generations
Julie’s legacy demonstrates how powerful a Filipino child star’s impact can be. Despite her brief career, she created characters and performances that continue to resonate with Filipino audiences decades later, proving that true star power transcends time.
7. Vilma Santos-Recto: From Child Star to Political Powerhouse
Then: She began her remarkable career as “Trudis Liit” (1963), earning a FAMAS Best Child Performer award nd setting the stage for one of the most illustrious careers among Filipino child stars.
Now:
- Continues her political career as Governor of Batangas, having served since 2007
- Holds the title of “Star for All Seasons” and maintains her status as the longest-reigning box office queen in Philippine cinema
- Semi-retired from acting but still makes occasional appearances in films, choosing projects that align with her current advocacy work
Vilma’s extraordinary journey from child star to entertainment icon to respected political figure represents perhaps the most dramatic transformation in Philippine entertainment history. Her ability to reinvent herself across decades while maintaining public trust makes her story truly exceptional.
8. Janice de Belen: Enduring Star Power
Then: She captured the nation’s heart as Flor in the popular series “Flor de Luna” (1979-1985), establishing herself as one of the most promising young actresses of her generation.
Now:
- Remains actively involved in television dramas, with recent roles in “Dirty Linen” (2023) and “Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law” (2025)
- Proud mother of five, including actress Kaila Estrada
- Continues to add to her collection of eight major acting awards, including Best Actress for “Rosenda” (1989)
Janice’s longevity in the entertainment industry showcases her remarkable versatility and adaptability. Unlike many Filipino child stars who fade from public consciousness, she has consistently reinvented herself, taking on challenging roles that showcase her range as an actress.
9. Niño Muhlach: The Original Wonder Kid
Then: Dominated 1970s Philippine cinema with hits like “Lulubog Lilitaw sa Ilalim ng Tulay,” becoming the highest-paid child actor in Philippine cinema history at the height of his popularity.
Now:
- Currently balancing acting roles in television while managing his business ventures including the Megamelt Bakeshop, home of Muhlach Bakery
- Former owner of D’Wonder Films, the production company behind many of his childhood hits
Niño’s transition from child superstar to businessman illustrates one of the many possible paths for former child actors. Though no longer regularly in front of the camera, his contributions to Philippine cinema remain an important part of the country’s entertainment history.
10. Ice Seguerra: Reinvention and Advocacy
Then: Won hearts as the adorable Aiza Kabisote in the long-running fantasy-comedy series “Okey Ka Fairy Ko!” (1987-1997), becoming one of the most beloved Filipino child stars of the era.
Now:
- Now using a different name that better aligns with his identity, having transitioned from his former name Aiza Seguerra as part of his gender journey
- Enjoys a successful music career with enduring hits like “Pagdating ng Panahon”
- Publicly identifies as a transgender man and actively advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in the Philippines
- Briefly served as Chairperson of the National Youth Commission (2016-2018), bringing entertainment industry insights to government service
Ice’s journey represents the power of authentic self-expression and reinvention. By embracing his true identity while continuing to share his musical talents, he has created a career defined by authenticity and courage that inspires fans across generations.
The Filipino Child Star Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
The journeys of these former child stars highlight several common themes:
Transition to Adult Roles: Stars like Xyriel Manabat and Andrea Brillantes have successfully navigated the challenging transition from child to adult roles, proving their versatility as performers.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Many, including Matet De Leon and Andrea Brillantes, have leveraged their fame to build successful businesses outside of entertainment.
Mental Health Awareness: The industry has become more conscious of the pressures facing child performers, with former stars like Jiro Manio highlighting the importance of support systems.
Diverse Career Paths: From politics (Vilma Santos) to music (Aiza Seguerra) to business (Niño Muhlach), these stars demonstrate that early fame can lead to various fulfilling career options.
What makes these stories particularly fascinating is how each former child star has carved their own unique path while navigating the challenges of growing up in the public eye. Their journeys remind us that behind the characters we loved were real people with dreams, struggles, and ambitions beyond the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the highest-paid Filipino child star in history? Niño Muhlach holds the record for being the highest-paid child actor in Philippine cinema history during the peak of his career in the 1970s.
Which former child stars have successfully transitioned to politics? Vilma Santos-Recto stands out for her successful political career as Governor of Batangas, while Aiza Seguerra served as Chairperson of the National Youth Commission.
Are any former Filipino child stars active internationally? Billy Crawford has built a successful international career, particularly in France, where he performs regularly and has a strong following.
Which child stars have become successful entrepreneurs? Andrea Brillantes and Matet De Leon have established successful businesses, with Andrea becoming the youngest celebrity CEO at 19.
Has the Philippine entertainment industry improved support for child actors? Yes, the industry has implemented better regulations and support systems for child performers, though challenges remain. Organizations now provide more resources for education, financial management, and mental health support.
For deeper insights into trends in the Filipino media landscape, our analysts provide detailed reports on industry developments.
These stories of transformation, resilience, and reinvention show that while child stardom may begin the journey, it’s just the first chapter in lives filled with surprising twists and inspiring achievements. Learn how Media-Meter’s data analysis can help you understand the patterns and trends in celebrity coverage and public perception.
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