Pops Fernandez, Lani Misalucha join 'TNT All-Star Grand Resbak'

The Asia's Nightingale and the Concert Queen are TNT's newest judges. PHOTO FROM ABS-CBN

Two of OPM's biggest icons, "Concert Queen" Pops Fernandez and "Asia's Nightingale" Lani Misalucha, have joined the country's most popular singing competition, "Tawag ng Tanghalan," as new judges for the "All-Star Grand Resbak."

Fernandez and Misalucha bring in fresh excitement to the well-loved showdown of returning contenders.

"What a way to start! TNT All-Star Grand Resbak 2025 was on fire! The energy is through the roof, the performances are amazing! I'm so excited for the next rounds," Fernandez wrote on Instagram right after their first day on Monday.

In a press conference, fellow judge and "It's Showtime" host Karylle Tatlonghari-Yuzon spoke about working with the two music icons.

"It came as a surprise. I'm just really excited to work with Pops and Lani again and to show them how fun it is to be here," Yuzon said.

Meanwhile, Maestro Louie Ocampo and Jed Madela shared their enthusiasm about the mix of returning contestants this season and how the beloved segment continues to give opportunities to singers.

"I'm thrilled and very nervous because being surrounded by such talented people means I have to be prepared. To be part of this group — this is the real 'TNT.' Tried and tested," Ocampo said.

"I'm so happy that they are given another opportunity to showcase how talented they are. This is exciting because this group has been carefully selected," Madela added.

Ogie Alcasid echoed similar sentiments, praising the new format and emphasizing that "Tawag ng Tanghalan" is, for him, the toughest singing competition in the country.

"This season's format is amazing. It's truly a test of strength and endurance. It's great to see both familiar and new faces. You know, Tawag ng Tanghalan is the most challenging singing contest. It stands the test of time. It's like a marathon," he said.

The show, which began Monday, saw 48 returning contestants battle it out for the first win for their respective teams. They are Psalm Manalo, Dior Bronia, Lee'anna Layumas, Niña Holmes, Nowi Alpuerto, Yen Victoria, Phoebe Salvatierra Miano, Arvery Lagoring, Eunice Encarnada, Judylou Benitez, Mark Justo, Tenten Pesigan, Vensor Dumasig, Aboodi Yandog, Adrian Manibale, Ayegee Paredes, Jezza Quiogue, Marko Rudio, Shamae Mariano, Shirlyn Hida, Charizze Arnigo, Eich Abando, Rachel Gabreza and Shanne Gulle.

Also competing are Froilan Cedilla, Raymundo Alvarez, Marco Adobas, Makki Lucino, Nicole Yu, Isaac Zamudio, Raven Heyres, Jeremiah Tianco, Dylan Genicera, Shawn Agustin, Keith Perez, Aliyah Quijoy, Antonetthe Tismo, Jomar Pasaron, Kim Nemenzo, Chin Chin Abellanosa, John Ramirez, Aihna Imperial, Lady Ramento, Maty Cabagte, Mariel Reyes, RG Mia and Venus Pelobello.

"It's Showtime" airs Mondays to Saturdays at noon on GMA, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, GTV, Kapamilya Online Live via ABS-CBN Entertainment's YouTube channel and Facebook page, iWantTFC, and TFC IPTV.