The Firestorm Starts Live on Air

In a moment that stunned both viewers and studio staff, Joey de Leon publicly criticized Atasha Muhlach during a live segment of E.A.T., catching everyone — including his co-hosts — completely off guard.

The legendary host, known for his sarcasm and sharp tongue, paused the program’s comedic flow and delivered what many perceived as a direct shot at Atasha, the rising star and daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales.

“Not everything sweet on the outside is clean on the inside,” Joey said, without mentioning Atasha’s name directly — but his gaze and timing left no room for doubt.

His cryptic message was delivered just hours after new leaked videos allegedly linked to Atasha began circulating on social media, containing sensitive and highly controversial content.

What’s in the Leaked Videos?

Though the origin of the videos remains unclear, they appear to show a young woman — strongly resembling Atasha — in unverified and private settings, raising concerns about both privacy violations and possible deepfake manipulation.

Clips range from:

Behind-the-scenes footage from E.A.T. rehearsals

Private conversations and dressing room moments

A blurred, suggestive clip that has ignited major backlash — though its authenticity remains unconfirmed

The videos began circulating on platforms like X, TikTok, and Telegram late Thursday night, with hashtags such as #AtashaScandal, #ProtectAtasha, and #JoeyExplains trending within hours.

Joey de Leon: From Mentor to Critic?

Many fans have questioned Joey de Leon’s motive and timing. As a senior host of E.A.T. — and someone who once publicly supported Atasha’s inclusion in the show — his sudden criticism feels personal to many observers.

“That wasn’t a joke. That was a warning shot,” one fan tweeted.
“If Joey knows something more, why not speak clearly? This cryptic shade is dangerous.”

Some speculate that tensions have been brewing backstage, with rumors that Joey has been unhappy about younger co-hosts gaining too much screen time or being “too modern” in style and tone.

Atasha Muhlach Silent — But Support Grows

As of now, Atasha has not responded publicly to either the leaked videos or Joey de Leon’s remarks. Her team has not released a statement, and her social media profiles remain untouched since the controversy erupted.

However, her silence has only intensified fan support.

“Atasha deserves protection, not persecution.”

“She’s being targeted — and we all know it.”

“This is another case of a young woman in showbiz being thrown under the bus.”

Celebrities including Anne Curtis, Vice Ganda, and Andrea Brillantes have liked or shared cryptic posts alluding to “media bullying” and “industry sabotage.”

Charlene Gonzales and Aga Muhlach React?

Sources close to the Muhlach family claim that Charlene and Aga are “deeply hurt” by what’s unfolding — especially the public nature of the controversy.

“They never pushed Atasha into this. She chose to be in showbiz, and now she’s being humiliated publicly,” said a family friend.

While the couple has yet to release a formal statement, industry insiders say legal action is being considered against those responsible for spreading the footage — particularly if any of it is proven to be digitally altered or leaked without consent.

Industry Divided — E.A.T. in Hot Water?

Insiders within E.A.T. reveal a growing rift among the cast and production team. Some believe Joey de Leon’s remarks were irresponsible, especially given the sensitive and unverified nature of the content in question.

Others argue that Joey, as a veteran, is “looking out for the show’s integrity” and may be reacting to deeper internal issues.

“There are things the public doesn’t know,” said one staffer anonymously. “And Joey might’ve just reached his limit.”

Legal Experts Warn: Deepfakes, Privacy, and Libel

Legal experts now warn that if the videos are fake or illegally leaked, those responsible may face serious charges — including cyber libel, identity theft, and violation of privacy rights under Philippine law.

“This isn’t gossip anymore. If a private citizen’s image is being manipulated or distributed without consent, that’s a crime,” said Atty. L. Mendoza, a cyberlaw specialist.

She adds that Joey de Leon’s statements could also be actionable if interpreted as public defamation — especially if Atasha’s name and career are damaged as a result.

Final Thoughts: What’s Really Going On?

Whether the videos are real or fabricated, and whether Joey’s comments were justified or cruel, the damage is already spreading.

Atasha Muhlach, once seen as a refreshing, elegant newcomer to Philippine TV, is now at the center of a media storm — caught between leaked footage, public scrutiny, and a legendary host’s verbal attack.