Ryan Christopher Claveria

Generational Main Characters: OG Pinoy Heartthrobs and the New Gen IT Boys

Article (news)

<p>Leading men have always played a vital role in any film or series—with visuals that capture the audience and make the story a lot more unforgettable. Actors must have more than their visuals; they must also possess the charm, appeal, and natural acting chops to translate good chemistry with their female leads. These elements aren’t achieved overnight; it’s the result of dedication, passion, and discipline. This is why the heartthrobs of the 2000s remain so unforgettable that, even to this day, they still make our hearts flutter. They not only gave us a long list of blockbusters and prestigious accolades; they also left a timeless star status that became the ultimate blueprint for the new stars of today.</p><p>Here are the OG Pinoy heartthrobs who made the 2000s era full of swooning moments!</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Piolo Pascual</strong></div><p>As the ultimate standard and inspiration for many, Piolo Pascual’s reign as one of the Philippines’ most enduring heartthrobs remains undisputed. Beyond anchoring a long list of cinematic blockbusters, his presence carries a rare blend of visuals, charisma, and star power—the kind of once-in-a-generation appeal that defines an entire era.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:600px;display:block"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781174944838Piolo Pascual.jpg" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @starcinema</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Sam Milby</strong></div><p>There is also no question that Sam Milby cemented his status as one of the definitive leading men of the 2000s. From the time he effortlessly stole hearts in PBB, to his lasting charisma as a rockoustic heartthrob—even now, his classic good looks remain completely untouched by time. Ladies, remember the exact moment Sam first graced your TV screens, and you couldn&#x27;t help but be completely mesmerized? He truly is that man.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:600px;display:block"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175210656a89ea03b-b7f6-471e-a363-61def925fc52.jpg" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via Star Cinema</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Jericho Rosales</strong></div><p>Who could ever forget the ultimate tita favorite and timeless heartthrob, Jericho Rosales? That face was crowned Mr. Pogi for a reason! When Pangako Sa’Yo premiered, his undeniable appeal, versatile visuals, and raw acting prowess came together and redefined the local romance genre. It was truly an iconic moment, and everyone, and we mean everyone, was crushing on Echo!</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:600px;display:block"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175254736Jericho.jpg" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via Star Cinema</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>John Lloyd Cruz</strong></div><p>When talking about outstanding leading men, we absolutely cannot forget John Lloyd Cruz—the man who brought the iconic Popoy character to life. Decades later, his iconic &quot;three-month rule&quot; remains a cultural touchpoint and the ultimate standard for modern breakups. Beyond his massive cultural footprint, his distinct charm and raw, grounded talent revolutionized what it means to be a Filipino leading man, leaving an indelible mark on local cinema.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:600px;display:block"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175320876John Lloyd.jpg" style="width:600px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via Star Cinema</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Gerald Anderson</strong></div><p>Pinoy Big Brother may have produced countless diverse actors throughout its historic run, but we could never forget the ultimate OG PBB heartthrob who completely owned the 2000s. Proving his grit by conquering every single one of Kuya’s challenges, he transitioned into the outside world as the pinnacle “crush ng bayan” of his generation.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:500px;display:block"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175376298PBBTeen1Gerald.webp" style="width:500px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via Pinoy Big Brother</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p>As the entertainment landscape shifted , it is undeniable that the industry&#x27;s OG icons have already seen their peak years. While they will always be respected for their incredible longevity and the legacy they built—paving the way for those who followed—a new wave of leading men is officially rising. Combining striking looks with undeniable talent, these rising stars are capturing the hearts of the new generation. </p><p>Here are the New Gen &quot;It Boys&quot; and exactly why they’re taking over!</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Rabin Angeles</strong></div><p>Rabin brought his passion and signature crimson hair, and the rest was history. Instantly rising to fame, he has already bagged multiple accolades and launched his very own perfume line. As the face of premium skincare brand The Lab by Blanc Doux, his endorsements speak volumes about the massive influence he has garnered since Mutya ng Section E. Beyond his talent, his iconic red hair stands as a landmark beauty and styling moment deeply embedded in the history of Philippine television.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175593156Rabin Angeles.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @rabinangeles_</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Andres Muhlach </strong></div><p>When Mutya ng Section E hit streaming platforms, audiences instantly fell in love with Andres’ character. Marking his very first lead role, he effortlessly delivered the exact charm and magnetic screen presence the role demanded. With those signature doe eyes and that infectious smile, it’s safe to say we are all completely crushing on Andres!</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781175754199Andres Muhlach 22.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @aagupy</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>JM Ibarra</strong></div><p>MMFF is officially on a roll, and marking his spectacular big-screen debut is JM Ibarra, who just became a major part of the iconic horror franchise Shake, Rattle &amp; Roll: Evil Origins. We’re not going to lie, JM’s acting here is flawless. He truly knows how to play with his expressions, particularly with his eyes, encapsulating the raw emotion needed for every intense scene—all while looking effortlessly handsome! </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781176158141JM 22.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @jmdibarra</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Dustin Yu</strong></div><p>Have you witnessed Dustin’s acting chops yet? If not, you are seriously missing out. In his shows, Dustin proved he is far more than just a handsome face and a sharp business mogul; he possesses a genuine mastery of internalizing his roles, delivering fluid, deeply expressive performances. This standout talent rightfully secured him the acting trophies at the 40th PMPC Star Awards for Movies for &quot;Shake, Rattle &amp; Roll Extreme&quot; and consecutively at the 7th VP Choice Awards for &quot;Shake, Rattle &amp; Roll: Evil Origins,&quot; officially cementing his status as the rising Chinito star of the moment!</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781176176820Dustin Yu 1.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @dustinyuu</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Gelo Rivera</strong></div><p>Everyone’s favorite kapitan, Gelo Rivera, is officially in his drama era! We all remember how his iconic 1x1 photo sent the internet into an absolute frenzy, sparking a viral trend where everyone on social media tried to recreate the look. That is exactly what it means to be utterly handsome. Whether he’s dominating the dance floor, leading a shoot production, or simply enjoying some downtime, Gelo never fails to mesmerize us with his top-tier visuals.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781176212899Gelo 1.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo via @bgyo_gelo</span></span></span></div>

<p>From 2000s icons to Gen Z It boys-in-the-making: Meet the Filipino leading men rewriting the rules of style, screen, and handsomeness.</p>

From 2000s icons to Gen Z It boys-in-the-making: Meet the Filipino leading men rewriting the rules of style, screen, and handsomeness.

Generational Heartthrobs: OG Pinoy Leading Men and the New Gen It Boys

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Generational Heartthrobs: OG Pinoy Leading Men and the New Gen It Boys

Arci Claveria

Published June 11, 2026 08:00 PM PHT

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Updated June 11, 2026 08:14 PM PHT

Read More:

Dustin Yu IT Boy

Jm Ibarra IT Boy

Andres Muhlach IT Boy

Rabin Angeles IT Boy

Handsome Filipino Actors

Piolo Pascual

Sam Milby

Gerald Anderson

John Lloyd Cruz

Jericho Rosales

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