**“When Lightaccents Turn to Shadows: Vice Ganda’s Public Taunt Toward Cristy Fermin During It’s Showtime Sparks Showbiz Firestorm”**

Introduction

Since its debut in 2009, It’s Showtime has been a cornerstone of Philippine noontime television, blending humor, variety, and celebrity appearances in a format that resonates deeply with Filipino audiences. Among its many hosts, Vice Ganda has emerged as one of the program’s defining personalities—known for sharp wit, playful banter, and unapologetic delivery. Meanwhile, veteran entertainment columnist and host Cristy Fermin has long occupied the other side of the tabloid‑talk spectrum: a stalwart of showbiz commentary, but also no stranger to legal controversies and public backlash.

The interplay of these strong personalities reached a high‑profile crescendo in late November 2023, when Vice Ganda appeared to launch a pointed aside at Cristy Fermin during a segment on It’s Showtime. The exchange sparked widespread debate, not only about the nature of on‑air humor, but also on ethics in celebrity discourse and social media reaction. The incident reflects the blurred line between showbiz satire and personal accusation—raising questions around intent, impact, and aftermath.

What Happened on It’s Showtime

On November 23, 2023, during the Me Choose, Me Choose segment on It’s Showtime, Vice Ganda greeted a contestant named “Cristy” with a playful but loaded question:

“Kumusta ka, Cristy? Anong pinagkakaabalahan mo, Cristy, bukod sa paggawa ng mga kasinungalingan?”

Although the contestant apparently had the same name as Cristy Fermin, viewers and netizens interpreted the remark as a deliberate jab at the veteran columnist. Vice Ganda did not explicitly name Cristy Fermin or mention her career, but audiences immediately drew the connection—especially given previous tensions noted between them.

Cristy Fermin’s Response

Cristy Fermin responded the following day via her online talk show, Cristy Ferminute. She expressed that she was not born yesterday and believed Vice’s comment was clearly aimed at her—even if not directly:

“Hindi naman kami ipinanganak kahapon para hindi namin maturol na ako talaga ang pinatatamaan ni Vice Ganda. Ang hindi lang maganda puro patagilid ang kaniyang bira.”

She criticized Vice for not calling her out by name and accused him of using other people to make a point:

“Bakit hindi niya ako diretsuhin? Gumagamit pa siya ng ibang tao para lang makaganti.”

Fermin added that she does not shy away from speaking her mind. She emphasized that her critiques about perceived arrogance or lack of humility in showbiz figures—Vice Ganda included—have always been candid and direct.

Beyond the Barb: Why It Mattered

Though on its surface the exchange was witty banter, it resonated far more. Several contextual layers amplified public interest:

1. History of Media Clashes

Fermin has been involved in multiple legal cases over the years for alleged defamation and cyber libel. Among the notable personalities who have filed complaints against her are Sharon Cuneta, Kiko Pangilinan, and Dominic Roque. While she has maintained that her commentary is protected under press freedom, these cases have cast a long shadow on her journalistic approach.

Vice Ganda, on the other hand, has been the subject of intense scrutiny from media commentators, especially from Fermin’s programs. Their differences in style, tone, and personal values have long positioned them on opposite ends of the showbiz spectrum.

2. Netizen Reactions

The digital audience reacted swiftly. Social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Reddit buzzed with both criticism and support. Many viewers saw Vice’s joke as well-timed satire, while others labeled it as an indirect attack with possible repercussions.

Meanwhile, Cristy Fermin’s prior comments about Vice—particularly those perceived as referencing gender identity—were heavily scrutinized. A growing number of viewers demanded accountability and even urged networks to reconsider their partnership with her.

3. Shifting Cultural Lines

Filipino audiences are becoming more vocal about media responsibility and respectful language, especially concerning gender, personal identity, and mental well-being. In this climate, subtle insults or even lighthearted jabs can be magnified when interpreted through the lens of prejudice or malice.

What may have once been dismissed as “showbiz intriga” now faces public and institutional consequences—especially in the wake of evolving social norms and values.

Public and Industry Response

Despite the uproar, no formal disciplinary action was taken against Vice Ganda or Cristy Fermin. Both continued with their respective shows, and neither issued a formal apology or clarification after the event.

However, the incident fueled discussions in mainstream media and entertainment journalism. Columns were written examining the ethics of on-air banter, while TV personalities offered their own takes on the controversy. Some argued that humor is a necessary element in Filipino television and that Vice Ganda has the right to defend himself with satire. Others pointed out that even humor has limits when it comes to public figures with influence over millions of viewers.

In this regard, the incident became more than just a single on-air moment—it became a case study in what media accountability means in the digital age.

The Role of Satire in Filipino Media

The Philippines has a rich tradition of using humor to navigate socio-political and cultural tensions. From stage plays and komedya to late-night variety shows, comedy has long been an avenue for expression. But what happens when humor begins to punch down—or is perceived to target individuals unfairly?

Vice Ganda’s style is known for its quick wit and social commentary. He often walks the fine line between comedy and criticism. However, in a media environment increasingly shaped by public feedback and instant backlash, even indirect remarks may be interpreted as defamatory or insensitive.

This dilemma cuts both ways. Cristy Fermin’s style of journalism, which often involves assertive commentary and opinionated language, also treads the border between assertiveness and alleged malice.

Both figures operate in public arenas where every word is recorded, repeated, and repurposed—and public sentiment now plays a growing role in shaping careers.

Reflection: A Symptom of a Deeper Divide

At its core, the Vice Ganda–Cristy Fermin clash is more than just a celebrity spat. It reflects an ongoing debate over:

The ethics of public commentary
The power imbalance between media commentators and celebrities
The role of digital audiences in demanding accountability
The boundaries between humor and harm

In traditional showbiz discourse, “patutsada” and indirect jabs were often seen as part of the game. But today’s audience is not only watching—they are participating, reshaping the narrative through hashtags, reactions, and grassroots campaigns.

Where Are They Now?

As of August 2025, both Vice Ganda and Cristy Fermin remain influential in their fields. Vice continues hosting It’s Showtime and various digital projects. Cristy still leads Cristy Ferminute and contributes to showbiz radio and online commentary.

No formal lawsuit or apology has been issued from either party regarding the November 2023 incident. While tempers appear to have cooled, the event lingers in public memory as an example of how easily entertainment moments can turn into national talking points.

Conclusion

This controversy reminds us that with visibility comes responsibility. Public figures—whether comedians or commentators—hold power in their words. The evolution of media consumption in the Philippines shows that audiences are not just viewers; they are critics, watchdogs, and participants.

Perhaps what’s needed is not more caution, but more honesty and humility in how media interacts—recognizing that even in humor, there’s space for accountability.