Willie Revillame Rumored to Be Replaced by Randy Santiago
RANDY SANTIAGO – The singer-comedian is reportedly set to temporarily replace his friend Willie Revillame as the host of the show Wil To Win.
This news was revealed by showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin during an episode of her online show on January 21. According to Cristy, Randy will step in as host starting February to allow Willie to focus on his campaign for the 2025 senatorial elections. Willie, a well-known TV host and businessman, filed his certificate of candidacy in October 2024.
Romel Chika, Cristy’s co-host, expressed admiration for the strong friendship between Willie and Randy. He noted that Willie used to work as Randy’s “hawi boy” (a personal assistant who clears the way for celebrities). Despite Willie’s rise to success, their bond has remained strong over the years.
As of now, Willie has not officially confirmed whether Randy will temporarily take over hosting duties.
Previously, Willie shared the reason behind his decision to run for senator. He expressed his frustration with constant disputes in politics, especially among the highly educated, and highlighted how some people look down on entertainers in public service.
“Awayan nang awayan. Mga edukado. Ang tingin nila sa mga artista, eh masyadong mababa. Aba’y kami may magagandang puso para sa ating mga kababayan,” Willie explained. He added, “Ano ba ang purpose ng isang senador? Hindi ako abogado, hindi ako nakatapos, pero ang purpose dapat ng bawat senador, bawat nagpa-public servant, bawat namumuno sa local government, mabuting puso ang mayroon ka. Ang lagi mong iniisip ‘yong mga kababayan mo.”
Meanwhile, Randy Santiago is a singer, actor, comedian, television host, director, producer, and entrepreneur. Known for his signature sunglasses due to a lazy eye condition, he gained fame in the late 1980s with hit songs like “Babaero” and “Hindi Magbabago.”
He is the older brother of Raymart and Rowell Santiago, sons of film director Pablo Santiago and actress Cielito Legaspi. Randy has starred in movies such as Paikot-ikot (1990) and Taray at Teroy (1988) and hosted popular TV shows, including Lunch Date, Magandang Tanghali Bayan, and Sing Galing!. He has also directed and produced various TV programs, including Wowowin.