The Filipino installment of reality TV show ‘Pinoy Big Brother’ took Philippine television by storm when it began airing in 2005. Filipinos grew to love Pinoy Big Brother because of its relatable, emotional, wacky, and dramatic moments.
Some of the today’s brightest stars also began in PBB. The long list includes Kim Chiu, Sam Milby, James Reid, Jason Gainza, Melai Cantiveros and many more.
In fact, Kim Chiu recently posted an Instagram update recalling her humble beginnings in the showbiz industry after winning Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition 12 years ago.
READ: Kim Chiu remembers humble beginnings in showbiz
Aside from Kim Chiu, where are some of the most prominent PBB winners today?
1. Nene Tamayo (PBB 1)
“Kumander Nene” became the face of the show when she was hailed as the first ever winner of Pinoy Big Brother in 2005. Her military background and strong but sweet personality secured her as one of the most beloved winners of the show.
After the show, Nene expressed her intention to become a broadcaster. This came to fruition when she became the host of TV Patrol World’s segment Citizen Patrol. She also tried show business by joining show U Can Dance where she was hailed as one of the finalists.
Nene is busy with her business at the moment. She is the owner of Nene Prime Foods that offer homemade food products. She is also a wife and mother now.
2. Beatriz Saw (PBB 2)
Bea Saw was hailed as the winner of the second regular season of PBB in 2007. Bea, while inside the house, was known for her strong personality despite her young age. On finale night, she was able to receive 1.5 million votes, the biggest at that time, which helped her secure the win.
After the show, Bea appeared as host of PBB and was a part of several TV shows. She also played the role of Anj in Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz’ iconic movie One More Chance.
Today, she is married to Rock Tan and is now a mother.
3. Melisa Cantiveros (PBB Double Up)
Melisa ‘Melai’ Cantiveros is arguably one of the biggest names to come out of PBB. Melai beat loveteam-turned-husband Jason Francisco and Kaye Abad’s now husband Paul Jake Castillo during PBB Double Up in 2009.
After her stint, she was able to book television shows left and right and even had her own show with Jason. Today, Melai is still very active on television and is currently one of the hosts of the morning talk show Magandang Buhay with Karla Estrada and Jolina Magdangal. She also has two children.
4. Keanna Reeves (PBB Celebrity Edition 1)
FUN FACT: Her stage name was tailored from that of actor Keanu Reeves.
Janet Duterte or Keanna Reeves was the winner of one of the most iconic seasons of PBB – Celebrity Edition 1. Alongside other celebrities, Keanna was locked inside the house for 56 days. On finale night, she was hailed the Big Winner of the show, beating John Prats, Bianca Gonzalez, and Zanjoe Marudo.
Today, Keanna is no longer active in show business as of the moment. Her latest major role is in ABS-CBN’s Home Sweetie Home.
