Showbiz royalty Atasha Muhlach is set to make waves in her first lead acting role as she stars in ‘Bad Genius: The Series,’ the Philippine adaptation of the hit 2017 Thai film.
Atasha will play the role of Lin, a brilliant student who develops an elaborate cheating scheme for wealthy classmates. She will be joined by Jairus Aquino as Bank, Gab Lagman as Pat, and Hyacinth Callado as Grace. The series adaptation, helmed by award-winning director Derick Cabrido, will be exclusively available on Viva One.
During the press conference on March 18, Atasha shared her excitement and the intense preparation she underwent for the role.
“I had to read the script over and over again. I studied every angle of my character to make sure I could do justice to Lin,” she said.
She also revealed that before accepting the project, she sought guidance from her family, particularly her father, Aga Muhlach.
“I first had to consult my family when this amazing project was offered to me. Then, I talked to my director. They told me, ‘You’re in good hands.’”
Atasha, who officially entered showbiz in 2023 under Viva Artists Agency, has been making a name for herself as one of the hosts of ‘Eat Bulaga’ and starring in the weekly sitcom ‘Pers Family’ with her family. However, this marks her first major acting project, and she considers it a dream come true.
“This is something I’ve wanted since I was a kid, and now that my dream is coming true, I don’t want to waste it. I want to give my best, my 100 percent, and I hope you all enjoy it,” Atasha expressed.
Following the success of the Thai original, the Philippine version is set to captivate local audiences with a fresh take on the gripping heist-style story. The series follows Lin, a high-achieving scholar at an elite school, who uses her intelligence to profit from a cheating ring.
Jairus Aquino plays Bank, another scholar who initially sees Lin as a rival but later joins the scheme out of financial necessity. Gab Lagman portrays Pat, a wealthy but academically struggling student who becomes the group’s main recruiter. Hyacinth Callado takes on the role of Grace, Pat’s girlfriend, and Lin’s first client in the cheating operation.
Adding depth to the story is a star-studded supporting cast: Romnick Sarmenta and Yayo Aguila as Lin’s parents, Ruffa Gutierrez as the school’s strict Principal Perez, Irma Adlawan as Bank’s mother, a hardworking laundress and Joko Diaz as Pat’s self-made millionaire father.
As one of Viva’s most anticipated projects of 2025, ‘Bad Genius: The Series’ is expected to showcase Atasha’s acting potential and cement her place in the entertainment industry.
With a gripping plot, a talented ensemble, and the direction of Derick Cabrido, this adaptation is set to bring a fresh perspective to an already beloved story.
