Love, harmony and high notes

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These days, televised talent shows have to offer more than just high notes and standing ovations to keep viewers hooked. They need real connection — and for GMA Network's "The Clash," that connection comes in the form of its magnetic hosts, Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz.

As real-life partners and seasoned performers, the two bring warmth and energy to the show, making the contestants feel at ease even as the pressure mounts.

Now on its newest and most thrilling season, "The Clash 2025" launched on June 8 with a brand-new twist: New Clashers vs. Clashbackers. For the first time, the show pits a fresh batch of hopefuls against returning contenders from past seasons who are hungry for redemption.

Airing Sundays at 7:15 p.m., the show promises more drama, vocal showdowns and emotional eliminations over 14 high-stakes weeks.

The 24 strong Clashers and Clashbackers with Cruz and San Jose as well as Clash Panelists Lani Misalucha and Christian Bautista. TMT PHOTOS

The show is helmed by the electrifying duo of Julie Anne and Rayver, who have grown into their roles as Clash Masters since joining the program in 2019. More than hosts, they see themselves as the contestants' biggest cheerleaders and anchors amid the chaos of competition.

"Our role is really to give them strength and energy so they feel comfortable and confident when they perform," Rayver explained during the show's media launch. "Sometimes, a simple 'You got this' can mean a lot to someone about to sing their heart out in front of millions."

Julie Anne agreed, sharing that the competition has grown fiercer each year, with more technically skilled and stylistically distinct talents taking the stage.

"The judges are stricter now," she said. "So every performance has to impress and show something new. It's all about consistency, creativity and standing out."

This year, the 12 New Clashers — Adelle Yu, Carlos Florez, Divine Camposano, Jan Echavarria, Jayce San Rafael, Juary Sabith, Liafer Deloso, Leigh Atienza, Marian Pimenta, Mitzi Josh, Scarlet Yape, and Venus Pelobello — were first introduced on May 28 and have already shown immense promise with their diverse styles and vocal chops.

And on June 11, the long-anticipated reveal of the 12 Clashbackers added a whole new layer of excitement. With their presentation to media out of the way, viewers can look forward to seeing familiar faces like Vilmark Viray, Renz Robosa, Jennifer Maravilla, Arabelle Dela Cruz, Nef Medina, Lyra Micolob, Bea de la Paz, Liana Castillo, and Zyrene Ciervo — each bringing their own stories of redemption and growth. These returning artists are no strangers to The Clash Arena and now have a second shot at the title.

Both groups will go head-to-head weekly, where only four will eventually earn a spot in the Grand Finale. It's a mix of new energy and seasoned determination — and Julie Anne and Rayver are right at the center of it all.

The job of keeping things balanced and upbeat falls on the two, who bring just the right blend of enthusiasm and empathy to every episode. Now a real-life couple, they say their relationship has enhanced their ability to support the contestants even more.

"We're more comfortable now, even in how we host," said Rayver. "Sometimes we throw in a joke and the contestants laugh — that helps loosen them up before they face the judges."

Julie Anne added, "We've always been best friends, even before we became a couple. So we have open communication, and we can really be ourselves on set. That healthy dynamic between us reflects in how we work together — and it helps the contestants feel at ease too."

But while they do their best to keep the mood light, both are keenly aware that this is still a competition. "We remind them that while it's good to be friends, they shouldn't lose their competitive spirit," said Rayver. "At the end of the day, it's about standing out."

With instant eliminations every round and only four slots available in the finale, the stakes couldn't be higher. Thankfully, the returning Clash Panel — composed of AiAi Delas Alas, Christian Bautista and Lani Misalucha — are as sharp, witty and compassionate as ever. And with director Rico Gutierrez at the helm, every episode is guaranteed to be polished and impactful.

Whether it's offering a pep talk backstage or reacting like proud fans on the sidelines, Julie Anne and Rayver have embraced their dual roles as hosts and silent mentors.

"When a performance blows us away, sometimes we can't help but express it right away — even before the judges speak," Julie Anne admitted with a laugh. "It's just our way of letting them know they did great."

In a show that thrives on competition, it's the harmony — onstage and off — that makes "The Clash" hit all the right notes.

The program airs on GMA Network every Sunday at 7:15 p.m.