For many celebrities, 2024 was a turbulent year. From controversies rocking the entertainment industry to the rising cost of living, even some of the biggest names in showbiz felt the sting, just like ordinary citizens.
From scandals and lawsuits to major career setbacks, this year’s happenings serve as a cautionary tale for aspiring stars to protect their reputation and make prudent decisions in their professional and personal lives.
- MaThon (Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings)
Fans had high hopes for this love team, which soared to fame with the hit series Can’t Buy Me Love. They were poised for greater heights with an upcoming teleserye and movie slated for the first quarter of 2025. However, everything fell apart following a cheating scandal involving Anthony Jennings’ girlfriend, who implicated both Anthony and Maris Racal.
Though both stars issued public apologies, the damage was done. Major brands that were set to sponsor them as a love team pulled out, resulting in significant financial losses. The controversy also affected their movie And the Breadwinner Is…, where their roles were downplayed during promotions.
Fans hope the two can bounce back and use this setback as a lesson. Both are undeniably talented, and their previous projects showcased their acting prowess. With determination and a focus on rebuilding their careers, they have the potential for a comeback.
- Shaira Moro
Known as the “Queen of Bangsamoro Pop,” Shaira Moro gained online fame early in 2024 with her hit song Selos. However, copyright issues emerged as the song was revealed to be derivative of Lenka’s Trouble is a Friend. In March, her record label voluntarily removed Selos and three other tracks—Forever Single (Walang Jowa), Babaero Na Pakboy, and Machine Gun—from streaming platforms due to allegations of plagiarism.
Though Selos was re-released in April after negotiations with Lenka’s camp, it failed to regain its initial traction. Fans and industry insiders hope Shaira and her management will focus on creating original music in 2025, as her artistry has the potential to bring Bangsamoro narratives to the mainstream.
- Rendon Labador
Rendon Labador was a polarizing figure in 2023, frequently making headlines with his controversial commentaries. However, by 2024, the public seemed to have grown weary of his antics. While he continued to post provocative content, his influence waned, with fewer media outlets picking up his statements.
In June 2024, Labador, along with Rosmart Tan-Pamulaklakin and Marki Tan, was declared persona non grata in Palawan due to disrespectful behavior and violations of several laws, including the Safe Spaces Act. His decline in popularity reflects how audiences now discern between constructive criticism and mere attention-seeking behavior.
- Ken Chan
Ken Chan started 2024 strong with his ongoing role in Abot-Kamay na Pangarap and the successful launch of his seventh restaurant, Deer Claus Steakhouse, in Quezon City. However, later in the year, he faced a syndicated estafa complaint involving an alleged investment dispute over his restaurant business.
Authorities issued two arrest warrants in connection with the case, and Ken’s sudden disappearance from the teleserye raised speculation. The actor remains at large, but many in the industry believe he has the resilience to overcome this hurdle and rebuild his career.
- Paolo Contis
Paolo Contis’ career saw highs and lows in 2024. While he hosted Tahanang Pinakamasaya!, the show faced criticism due to his snide remarks and issues surrounding his personal life, including allegations of neglecting his children while giving away prizes on the program. The show eventually ended due to low ratings.
His Netflix film A Journey received positive reviews, but his theatrical releases Fuchsia Libre and Dear Satan struggled. The latter even received an X-rating from the MTRCB, barring it from cinemas. Paolo also faced rumors of a secret child with Yen Santos, adding more controversy to his year.
- Daniel Padilla
Daniel Padilla’s breakup with Kathryn Bernardo was a heartbreaking end to one of showbiz’s most beloved love teams. Though neither party addressed the rumors of infidelity, the speculation tarnished Daniel’s image.
Since 2 Good 2 Be True in 2022, he has not had a follow-up teleserye. While he has projects lined up for 2025, including Incognito, the challenges he faced in 2024—both personally and professionally—may cast a shadow over his next ventures.
- Cristy Fermin
Veteran showbiz personality Cristy Fermin faced multiple legal battles in 2024. She lost five counts of libel filed by Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan, resulting in significant financial penalties. Additionally, Fermin faced ongoing lawsuits from Bea Alonzo and Sarah Lahbati’s family.
While her show Cristy Ferminute continues, these legal troubles have undoubtedly impacted her reputation and finances.
- Neri Naig
Neri Naig-Miranda, known as the “Wais na Misis,” faced 14 counts of violating the Securities Regulation Code and syndicated estafa related to her endorsement of Dermacare. The clinic allegedly misled investors with promises of high returns and issued post-dated checks that bounced.
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Her arrest shocked her followers, who admired her transition from actress to entrepreneur and influencer. Many are waiting to see how she navigates this legal and personal challenge in 2025.
While these celebrities faced significant challenges in 2024, their experiences serve as reminders of the importance of accountability, authenticity, and resilience in the entertainment industry. As they step into the new year, the public—and their fans—hope for redemption stories that will inspire and uplift.
