As far as talent-competition programs go, Star Circle Quest stands out as one of the most memorable ones. Launched in 2004 by ABS-CBN, it became an avenue for many aspiring actors, singers, and performers to get their start in the industry. And come on, who doesn't remember its catchy opening theme song?
Almost two decades after its first season concluded, the show's pioneering cast have each went on to make a name for themselves within and outside the country. Scroll away to see what they're up to now!
Here's where the Star Circle Quest Season 1 contestants are today
1. Hero Angeles
Crowned as the first ever "Grand Teen Questor" of the series, Hero Angeles dove straight into the entertainment scene as an actor and host. Two of his most notable gigs were roles in GMA's famed teleseryes Dyesebel and Luna Mystika, rubbing elbows with Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista.
Under the mentorship of German "Kuya Germs" Moreno, he became a regular co-host on the late night talk show Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman. In 2015, he dabbled into painting and sculpting, and even showcased his work at online exhibits.
2. Sandara Park
Thanks to Star Circle Quest, the world was introduced to the powerhouse that is Sandara Park. After concluding her stint as a runner-up and overall fan favorite, she starred in local productions such as Bcuz of U and Super Noypi, releasing a hit self-titled album along the way.
Dara moved back to South Korea in 2007, and two years later, joined CL, Bom, and Minzy in forming the globally-renowned girl group 2NE1. With countless awards, numerous brand endorsements, and an unforgettable Coachella performance under her belt, it's safe to say our "pambansang krung-krung" is most certainly a superstar.
3. Roxanne Guinoo
With an impressive track record throughout the season (she never placed in the bottom rankings!), it came as no surprise that Roxanne Guinoo became a successful celebrity after the show. Her biggest break came in 2007 when she bagged the main role in Natutulog Ba and Diyos. This was followed by leading parts in the Shake, Rattle and Roll horror film series, as well as regular bits in anthology shows Ipaglaban Mo and Maalala Mo Kaya.
4. Joross Gamboa
There's bound to be at least one local TV show or movie where you've seen Joross Gamboa. From supporting roles in It Takes A Man And A Woman and Hello, Love, Goodbye, to a Cinemalaya award-winning performance in Intoy Syokoy ng Kalye Marino, the actor has done a great job in cementing himself in the industry. Presently, we can catch him in Flower of Evil, portraying one of Lovi Poe and Piolo Pascual's contemporaries.
5. Melissa Ricks
We now know Melissa Ricks as the star of many primetime hit TV shows, namely Iisa Pa Lamang and Kambal sa Uma. She was also Matt Evans' paramour in the teen-oriented fantaserye Da Adventures of Pedro Penduko. The Star Circle Quest finalist is currently enjoying a more low-key life away from the spotlight, focusing on her full-time job as a mom to her daughter Kiera Kelly.
6. Neri Naig
A 19-year-old Neri Naig first burst into the scene as a hopeful on the reality show. Even if she didn't bring home the top prize, Neri still enjoys a fruitful career as an occasional actress, an entrepreneur, a recent college graduate, a doting mom to her three kids, and loving wife to band vocalist Chito Miranda.
7. Michelle Madrigal
Post-Star Circle Quest, Michelle Madrigal and her sister Ehra were taken under the wing of talent manager Annabelle Rama. Across networks, she fulfilled various roles, even working with her batchmate Hero in a couple of Kapuso productions. Today, Michelle is a certified fitness junkie, and she even provides her services and expertise as a personal trainer!
8. Joseph Bitangcol
Despite being the first one cut from his season's "Magic Circle of 10," Joseph Bitangcol still managed to take part in different projects post-Star Circle Quest, playing everything from a benevolent policeman in Ang Probinsyano to a teenage boy in Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita.
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