When news broke that Atasha Muhlach would be leaving the iconic noontime show Eat Bulaga, fans were shocked and filled with questions. Was it about a new career path? Was there behind-the-scenes drama? For weeks, the story was shrouded in mystery—until Maja Salvador finally decided to speak out, giving her perspective on what really happened.

In a candid interview earlier this week, Maja revealed that Atasha’s departure wasn’t a sudden decision. “It was something she had been thinking about for a while,” Maja said. “She wanted to explore other opportunities, but there were also things happening backstage that made the choice easier for her.”

While Maja didn’t directly accuse anyone, she did not shy away from acknowledging that veteran host Joey de Leon played a role in the situation. “Joey is a legend in the industry, but not everyone’s personalities match perfectly. Sometimes, small misunderstandings can feel bigger when you’re under the spotlight,” she explained.

Industry insiders claim that there were moments of tension between Atasha and Joey during live segments. Although never explosive, these on-camera interactions allegedly carried over off-camera, with creative disagreements and differences in comedic style contributing to the unease.

A production source, who requested anonymity, said that Atasha’s quiet and polished hosting style sometimes clashed with Joey’s trademark blunt humor. “They respected each other, but their energies were just very different. Eventually, it took a toll,” the source said.

Despite this, Maja emphasized that there was no outright feud. “It’s not about blaming anyone,” she clarified. “Atasha simply wanted an environment where she could grow in her own way. Sometimes, that means moving on.”

The news of Atasha’s exit sparked mixed reactions from fans. Many expressed sadness, praising her charm and professionalism on the show. Others supported her decision, saying that branching out might be the best move for her career at this stage.

Joey de Leon has not issued any direct statement about the matter, although he has posted cryptic messages on social media about “change” and “new beginnings,” which some followers believe are related to the situation.

Maja, who has also experienced the pressures of live television, shared words of encouragement for Atasha. “She’s talented, she’s beautiful, and she has a bright future ahead. This is just one chapter of her story.”

Rumors are now swirling about where Atasha might go next. Some believe she’s eyeing a project in acting, while others think she may venture into hosting for another network. Whatever the case, her departure from Eat Bulaga has opened a conversation about workplace dynamics in the entertainment industry—particularly between established veterans and younger talents.

As the dust settles, one thing is certain: Atasha’s move has left a mark not just on the show, but also on the fans who followed her journey. Whether or not Joey’s influence was the deciding factor, her decision proves that in showbiz, sometimes the boldest move is knowing when to walk away.