Actress Jillian Ward and BGYO member JL are bringing fresh perspectives to GMA Network’s “The Clash Teens,” joining veteran judge Christian Bautista as the reality singing competition launches a new season focused on discovering the country’s next generation of vocal stars.
Premiering June 7, the teen edition of the network’s original singing competition will feature young performers battling it out in the Clash Arena while navigating the challenges of competition, self-expression and personal growth.
Returning to host the program are “Clash Masters” Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz, who said the new season introduces a different energy from previous editions.
“For the past seasons, we’re used to different kinds of chaos and fierceness, but now we have a different kind of energy. They’re very fierce, but at the same time, they’re very jolly, very energetic and they’re really career-driven. That’s what makes us happy because it resonates with the performances they’re giving,” San Jose said during the show’s media conference.
Cruz said the teen contestants have impressed him with their confidence and talent. “The level of confidence and the talent that they’re giving to The Clash Teens is different. It’s like we’re seeing a different generation of talent,.”
For Ward, the judging role marks a new chapter in her career. The actress said she hopes to help contestants develop confidence both on and off the stage, drawing from her own experiences growing up in the entertainment industry.
“I started very young, so I know the struggles of being a child star and a teenager. Mostly, when we’re teenagers, we have self-doubts. That’s when you build your confidence, and I think that’s also what I can offer to them. I want to help them be proud of themselves and believe in what they can do,” Ward said.
Ward added that discipline and perseverance remain essential for young performers.
“Whatever happens, they should keep on going because what we show is not always perfect. You should always try and give it your all. What I can share with them is the value of discipline. No matter how big the stage is or how many people are watching, you should always give your 100 percent,” she said.
Meanwhile, JL returns to the franchise in what he described as a full-circle moment. Before becoming a member of BGYO, he competed in the first season of “The Clash.”
“As a Clasher of Season 1, I remember that I was still really weak. It was my first time joining a singing contest, so I was nervous, I was scared and my confidence wasn’t there yet,” JL recalled.
“Now I can see my own experience in these contestants, and I want to share the lessons I’ve learned and be an inspiration to them,” he added.
The P-Pop performer said one of the biggest lessons he hopes to pass on is the importance of authenticity.
“What I did wrong before was thinking that I needed to sing for contests. I lost my originality and my authenticity. As a judge, I want to help the teen Clashers show who they really are and stay true to themselves when they perform,” JL said.
Bautista, the lone returning panelist, said one of the most noticeable changes among young singers today is their willingness to experiment and express their individuality through music.
“The song choices of this generation are so experimental. It makes us think, ‘Why did they choose this song?’ But whatever they sing usually represents who they really are, and that’s what they bring out through their performances. That’s why it’s so exciting to watch them,” Bautista said.
The singer also encouraged contestants to persevere through setbacks, reminding them that growth often comes through failure.
“We always aim to be better and to be one of the best, but there will be more defeats and more mistakes along the way. Just remember,” Bautista pointed out.
Directed by Louie Ignacio, who has been with the franchise since its debut, “The Clash Teens” promises new challenges, unexpected twists and behind-the-scenes stories highlighting the friendships, rivalries and realities of competition.
Alongside the televised competition, GMA Network is also rolling out “Behind The Clash,” a digital reality companion series that will give viewers a closer look at the contestants and their journeys behind the scenes.
“The Clash Teens” premieres June 7 and airs Sundays at 7:15 p.m. on GMA-7 and Kapuso Stream. International viewers can also watch through GMA Pinoy TV.