Unknown to us, last year was actually the last Star Magic Ball. Since its humble beginning in 2007, it has since become one of the most awaited affairs in local show business, and understandably so. Gathering the premiere talent management and development center’s brightest stars, it is truly a magical night filled with glitz and glamor. Not to worry, as we aren’t totally saying good-bye. The much-anticipated event will continue for years to come—only now, it will be called the ABS-CBN Ball.
The first ever ABS-CBN Ball celebrates the theme “Share The Love” through its advocacy of re-launching the Children’s Village of Bantay Bata, a home for abused, neglected, and exploited Filipino children. The invitation fans out to stars and celebrities who aren’t under ABS-CBN management or Star Magic talents—including Viva’s James Reid and Nadine Lustre, who will be attending the event together for the first time.
The significant change of name marks a new beginning, but before we officially say good-bye to the Star Magic Ball, we look back at some of the most memorable moments in the highly-publicized event—controversies, iconic appearances, and all.
Bea Alonzo and Gerald Anderson together at the ball
In 2010, Although Gerald Anderson and Bea Alonzo attended with different dates—Kim Chiu and Zanjoe Marudo, respectively—the two were later spotted holding hands as they left the ball. Though they denied dating at the time, in 2013, Bea admitted to having a short-lived relationship with Gerald—after he had broken things off with Kim. In 2017, they reunited, though the two eventually split again.
The Coco Martin and Matteo Guidicelli brawl
Ah, who can forget this bloody fist-fight? In 2011, Maja Salvador and Matteo Guidicelli were rumored to be dating at the time. Her on-screen partner then was Coco Martin. While doing a mall show, Coco reportedly “stole kisses” which led to Matteo confronting the Ang Probinsyano actor, culminating to a fist-fight at the ball’s after-party. The two actors later apologized and remained amicable, Matteo even presented an award to Coco the following year.
KathNiel and KimXi’s debut appearance
2012 marks an important year, for it was also the 20th anniversary celebration of Star Magic. It was special for another reason, namely, the red carpet debut of two of the most well-loved love teams: Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, as well as Kim Chiu and Xian Lim. KathNiel also took home the Breakout Style Award that night.
Michael Cinco’s night
2013 was also a magical one, as the Star Magic Ball team decided to do things differently. The usual sit-down dinner was scrapped in favor of a more dramatic fashion show setup, as tribute to Michael Cinco. That year saw stars walking the runway while modeling the acclaimed designer’s stunning creations. After the show, Star Magic presented the designer with a plaque for his contribution to the country and the fashion industry.
Ellen Adarna partied it up
It’s only a party if you’re having fun, right? In 2015, Ellen Adarna had her fair share of fun at the Star Magic Ball. That year, she made headlines for getting drunk, which she admitted as much in an interview: “I was drunk. Yes, I was drunk. Basta, ‘di ako wasak na wasak. Nakainom.” (I wasn’t wasted. I just drank a few.) Her date that night was her former co-star Ejay Falcon, but she was seen holding hands later on with Paulo Avelino. Amidst getting bashed for “ditching” her date, Ejay defended her saying, “I wouldn’t change a thing.”
A year of surprises
Last year had a lot of good moments, including Claudine Barretto’s return after being MIA in the event for eight years. It was also filled with first-timers like couple Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati— who killed it, even with her three-month old baby bump—as well as love teams Maymay Entrata and Edward Barber, and Kissess Delavin and Marco Gallo. Despite it being their first time, the latter pair bagged the Best Dressed Award, along with Pia Wurtzbach, who was equally stunning in her new bob cut hairstyle and black dress. Another scene stealer was Sue Ramirez and her racy black dress.
Art by Marian Hukom
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