Joey de Leon Under Fire After Stirring Controversy by Meddling in the Explosive Feud Between Miles Ocampo and Maine Mendoza
What began as subtle tension between two beloved actresses has now exploded into a full-blown controversy involving one of the most influential names in Philippine showbiz. Joey de Leon, the veteran comedian and long-time host of Eat Bulaga, has landed in hot water after allegedly taking sides in the increasingly public feud between Miles Ocampo and Maine Mendoza.
Once seen as two of the brightest and most promising female stars in the industry, Miles and Maine are now embroiled in a bitter dispute that has spilled from behind the scenes into the headlines — and Joey’s unexpected involvement may have just made things worse.
The Rising Tension: What Sparked It All?
Though they were never known to be best friends, Miles Ocampo and Maine Mendoza often appeared cordial in their shared hosting duties and occasional showbiz events. But according to insiders, tensions began mounting earlier this year when both actresses were considered for a primetime hosting slot on a highly-anticipated variety-reboot program under a major network.
Reports claim that Miles landed the role, much to the disappointment of Maine’s management team. Allegedly, this sparked an internal conflict that led to on-set awkwardness, passive-aggressive remarks, and “unspoken rivalries” among fans and staff alike.
Joey de Leon Weighs In—And Fans React
In a move that shocked both fans and colleagues, Joey de Leon reportedly made offhand remarks during a recent taping of E.A.T., referencing “young talents who need humility” and “people forgetting who paved the way.” While he didn’t name names, netizens were quick to interpret the message as being aimed at Maine Mendoza, who began her rise to fame as part of the now-defunct Eat Bulaga segment “Kalyeserye.”
Some even say Joey’s tone was clearly sympathetic to Miles, who once played Joey’s “daughter” in various comedy skits and who is widely seen as being more aligned with the Tito-Vic-Joey (TVJ) camp following their exit from TAPE Inc.
One insider shared:
“Joey thinks Miles is the future. He’s made it clear off-cam that he doesn’t like the way Maine has been behaving. He sees her as ungrateful.”
These statements — whether intentionally leaked or not — quickly circulated online and triggered a firestorm of backlash, with Maine’s massive fanbase coming to her defense.
Fans Battle It Out Online
As the controversy escalated, fans of both actresses launched rival hashtags:
#ProtectMaineMendoza
#MilesDeservesBetter
#JoeyDeLeonCancelParty
Comments flooded social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), where users fiercely debated Joey’s alleged bias and the ongoing conflict between the actresses.
One fan posted:
“Maine has been nothing but respectful. Joey has no right to tear her down just because she outshines his favorite.”
Another countered:
“Miles worked her way up quietly and humbly. Just because she’s not loud doesn’t mean she’s not talented. Joey is only telling the truth.”
Miles Ocampo: The Silent One in the Storm
While Maine Mendoza’s team reportedly released a short and cryptic message asking for “respect and professionalism on all sides,” Miles Ocampo has remained completely silent amid the brewing drama.
Those close to the young actress say she was deeply hurt by the situation and didn’t want Joey to step in on her behalf.
“She didn’t ask for this. She doesn’t want people to think she’s hiding behind Joey’s shadow,” said a stylist who has worked with Miles on multiple occasions.
Her silence, however, has sparked even more speculation. Some say it’s a sign of maturity, while others accuse her of using Joey’s influence to push Maine out of the spotlight.
Industry Veterans React
The unexpected involvement of Joey de Leon, known for his unapologetic humor and long-standing reputation as a tastemaker in Philippine entertainment, has triggered concern among fellow celebrities and producers.
One veteran director said:
“This is the kind of issue that can hurt careers permanently. When a senior figure like Joey sides with one person, the industry listens — and that’s dangerous.”
Others have pointed out that Joey’s history of controversial remarks may be catching up to him once again. Over the years, he has been accused of making insensitive comments, from mental health jokes to misogynistic statements, but has rarely faced long-term consequences.
Maine Mendoza: The Unexpected Underdog?
It’s ironic that Maine Mendoza, once considered the darling of Eat Bulaga, now finds herself seemingly alienated from the very people who launched her into stardom. Fans are calling this a “full-circle betrayal,” with many expressing disappointment that the institution she helped revive — particularly during the peak of AlDub — appears to have turned its back on her.
A trending tweet read:
“Without Maine, Eat Bulaga wouldn’t have survived 2015. Let’s not rewrite history just because Joey prefers someone else now.”
Despite the noise, Maine has continued working, recently signing with new endorsements and teasing a potential digital talk show project. Those close to her say she is “choosing peace over pettiness.”
What Happens Now?
With emotions running high and fanbases clashing daily, producers of E.A.T. and both actresses’ respective management teams are reportedly working behind the scenes to de-escalate the situation.
A joint statement from the show’s executive producer is rumored to be in the works, aiming to “clarify misunderstandings and affirm the show’s commitment to fairness and respect among talents.”
But some insiders believe the damage is already done.
“When Joey speaks, it’s rarely taken lightly,” said a network executive. “This feud may not be just a one-time spark — it could shape future casting, endorsements, and alliances.”
Final Thoughts: A Divided Industry
What began as subtle showbiz tension has now become a national conversation about power, favoritism, and the invisible strings that pull the industry.
Whether Joey de Leon meant to stir the pot or simply voiced his opinion, the ripple effect is undeniable. Miles Ocampo and Maine Mendoza may never be best friends, but they’re now forever linked in what may be the most explosive entertainment controversy of the year.
In the end, the real question remains: Was Joey de Leon’s intervention an act of loyalty — or a dangerous misuse of influence?
Only time will tell.
