MANILA, Philippines — Julie Anne San Jose has the rare feat to topbill back-to-back GMA weekend shows. Viewers are definitely not seeing double.
She simply wears the hats of “The Clash 2024” host and “The Voice Kids” coach on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.
Julie Anne considers it as a career milestone.
“It really needs time management,” said she of juggling two programs and roles in a recent press conference. “For me, it’s not that tough because I really love what I do. Since both shows are in the field of music, I don’t find them completely different, although (I’m taking on) different roles. One is that of a coach, and the other one is that of a host.”
The singer-and-actress takes delight in presenting a singing and reality search program and giving expert advice.
“Sobrang saya ko (I was very glad)… when we learned that there would be another season for ‘The Clash,’” said she, who shares the hosting chores with boyfriend Rayver Cruz. “It is such a great opportunity (to be part of it) because we’re really like a family.”
Julie Anne has been hosting it for the past six seasons, with Ai-Ai delas Alas, Christian Bautista, and Lani Misalucha as “The Clash” judges.
“It’s something also very, very close to my heart because I also came from (and I’m a product of) a singing competition,” added she. “To host it or be a member (of its cast, specifically as a Clash Master) is a huge opportunity, and it somehow reminds me of the good old days when I was in a singing competition (‘Pop Star Kids’). So, (being on the show is) very nostalgic because nakikita ko yung mga Clashers na talagang sabik sila na makuha at marating yung mga pangarap nila (I see and witness the determination of Clashers to achieve and reach their dreams).”
With that, Julie Anne is grateful to GMA for producing such a kind of show that gives opportunities to people who aspire to become performers or singers.
“The Clash” serves as a platform for them “to become professionals and to become, you know, great at what they do or their craft,” said she.
As “The Voice Kids” coach, Julie Anne imparts lessons she has gained as a recording artist and learned from fellow creatives, “which I also love doing because I also love to share whatever experiences I’ve had and I’m experiencing from industry,” shared she, the only female in “The Voice Kids’ team of coaches that includes Billy Crawford, and Stell and Pablo of SB19.
“Para kasing mga brothers ko na ang mga ito (They’re all like my brothers),” said she. “Personally, growing up, I was also like one of the boys. So, when I’m with them (the male coaches), I’m really comfortable, and I know even if this is a competition at may mga bardagulan moments kami (we have bardagulan moments or competitive exchange of ideas), it seems like just a normal sibling relationship (or rivalry).”
This can also be attributed to the fact that the coaches are on the show to tap the best kiddie singing talents and eventually produce the season winner.
“I’ve been saying this all the time. What I’m looking for usually is someone who’s versatile, who can do a lot of things, someone na pwede mong turuan… at pwede mong makasama sa pag-explore ng mga bagay, bagay (who can be taught and can explore new things),” concluded Julie Anne. “And this time, since kids are charming, perhaps I’m also looking for (that quality and a) child who has a connection not only with me, but also with the viewers.”
(Watch ‘The Clash 2024’ on Saturdays at 7:15 p.m., while ‘The Voice Kids’ on Sundays at 7 p.m.”)