Andres Muhlach brings ‘Bagets’ back for a new generation

“Four decades later, the spirit of ‘Bagets’ lives on—as Andres Muhlach takes on the role that made his father a star.”

Forty years after the beloved youth film “Bagets” first captured the spirit of an entire generation, its iconic character Adie is making a comeback, but this time, on stage.

Taking on the role that once defined his father Aga Muhlach’s early career, Andres Muhlach breathes new life into Adie in the 2026 stage adaptation “Bagets The Musical.”

The production marks a full-circle moment for the Muhlach family and a nostalgic trip for Filipino audiences who grew up with the film’s timeless themes of friendship, freedom, and first love. Andres will alternate performances with fellow Viva artist Mico Hendrix Chua, completing the new-generation “Bagets” barkada set to charm a new era of theatergoers.

“Bagets The Musical” runs from Jan. 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. 

Joining Muhlach and Chua in the ensemble cast are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton, Ethan David and KD Estrada as Arnel, and Jeff Moses and Sam Shoaf as Topee.

In an interview, the young Muhlach shared how surreal it felt to step into his father’s shoes.

“Kahit ako pina-process ko pa rin lahat kasi ang daming nangyayari and tuloy-tuloy din ang work. I’m overwhelmed and truly grateful,” he said.

Like Bagets Father, Like Bagets Son

“Super happy. Alam mo ‘yong tatay ko, hindi siya makapaniwala na ito na ‘yon. Kapag pinagkukuwentuhan namin, it’s like, ‘Grabe ‘no, ‘yon ang first project ko sa buong buhay ko, ‘Bagets,’ tapos after how many years, ikaw na ang magiging part of the ‘Bagets’ cast.’ Sobrang natutuwa siya and couldn’t believe it, too. N’ong nakita ko ang script, I shared a little bit (kasi bawal pa), tapos he got excited talaga.”

“I’ll be playing Adie—yes, Daddy’s character,” Andres added, smiling.

When asked if his father gave him any advice, he said, “Wala naman. Parang ang advice lang niya sa akin is to enjoy the process and find fun. Kasi, if you have a good time, it will come easy.”

Having watched the original film several times, Andres said he now understands why “Bagets” became such a phenomenon. “I’ve seen the movie many times, and I loved it. It’s really easy to see kung bakit naging hit ‘yong ‘Bagets’ sa Philippine industry—kasi it was the first ensemble cast at that time, and it made a big impact on audiences and industry fans talaga.”

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