The Studs: Served Hot and Fresh

There’s a new all-male group in town that is sure to captivate just about everyone. With their buff bodies and undeniable charm, the young men of The Studs are ready to take center stage—in the entertainment world and in our hearts. Text by Jessa Ericka C. Bien Photos courtesy of Noel Ferrer. Composed of eight young, adorable, and multi-talented men, The Studs is a group whose members are ready to shed their sweet, innocent images goodbye for a more mature look. Each with his own appeal and personality, they are all set to rock our world. But what sets The Studs different from all the other boy groups around? “'Yung versatility ng grupo,” member JC Cuadrado says. “Meron kaming iba-ibang talents. Meron kaming pambato sa kanta, sa pag-arte, sa dancing, [at] sa hosting,” adds fellow member Edgar Allan Guzman. Coming from different fields in showbiz, The Studs is indeed a group that can boast of unity in their diversity. “Pero [we’re] not naman comparing ourselves sa ibang grupo ngayon. They have their own strengths, we have our own also, and we respect that,” JC maintains. Cool Change Most of The Studs made their break in the entertainment industry as cute teeny boppers who attracted people with their boy-next-door smiles. This especially applies to Mike Tan, Dion Ignacio, and Kevin Santos—all graduates of the popular talent search StarStruck. But with the emergence of The Studs, the guys had to go through certain changes for their new image. Mike Tan, for example, says, “Ang tagal kong pinaghirapan 'yung katawan ko bago maging ganito.” With regular gym and boxing sessions, it is apparent now that Mike has a toned, leaner body as compared to his early days in the talent competition. Fellow members reveal that Mike, in fact, is the most health conscious among them all. “Siya talaga 'yung pinakamasipag mag-gym sa’min eh,” Felix Roco says. JC also adds, “Siya pa nga 'yung nagsasabi na huwag n’yong kainin 'yan.” Good Feedback Formed only late this year, The Studs have already had several projects that helped in their exposure. They have come up with a sexy calendar magazine, starred in different Kapuso shows and are recording their first fitness video. “It’s a refreshing start for all of us,” JC observes. “[And] it’s something new for the fans.” Catch The Studs at Klownz Angeles this December 22 and in Zirkoh Timog on January 4 next year. And watch out for their fitness video that will also be released in 2008. Keep posted for more updates on The Studs! Tell other people what you think about these hunks in the iGMA forums!