TOP talk show host Boy Abunda is in a league of his own.
The well-loved Abunda possesses a unique gift of gab that makes him a highly-regarded TV program host for many decades now. His exceptional ability to run a talk show in such a confident way that grabs the attention and holds the mind of the audience has won him numerous awards because of this exemplary gift.
It has been said that real speaking confidence comes from being able to communicate clearly, persuasively, concisely, and with great influence, making sure that what one is saying makes a dent or a difference. Years of experience and continuous practice has also allowed Abunda to master his hosting skills competently, combining this with natural charisma, thorough preparation and emotional intelligence.
I reckon that Abunda’s gift of gab is more than his being a true conversationalist. It goes beyond putting himself on the line when he comes face to face with his show’s subjects and guests. Abunda is a listener, the kind of listening that means he truly hears what his guests have to say.
He has also mastered the art of audience connection. I know for a fact that Abunda reads a lot. He makes sure that he is always up to date with his subjects before he goes to the studio to do his interviews, helping him transition smoothly across unexpected interview topics.
It also enables him to connect genuinely and allows him to ask more insightful, human-centered questions. This public empathy transforms ordinary talk into powerful, human-centric connections, and this is what gives Abunda the big edge over other talk show hosts.
Time and again, Abunda has affirmed that listening is as important as talking. He allows his guests to feel respected and be at their most comfortable, and he makes sure that he does not monopolize the conversations with them. At times when his guests would ramble on, go blank or pause too long, Abunda breaks in with a comment, and immediately leads the conversation in another direction to put the guest back at ease and regain control.
Abunda turns 65 in a few days, and to celebrate this happy milestone, GMA Network will have a special two-part episode for his program Fast Talk on October 28 and 29, featuring Abunda’s dear friend Kris Aquino in a rare TV appearance.
‘This super exclusive one-on-one took more than 11 years in the making, and I’m thankful that Kris said yes. In a taped-as-live session, we talked about almost everything-life, love, her two boys, her health updates, our friendship, politics, money, almost everything because, let’s face it, everything about Kris stirs interest,’ he said, adding that Aquino’s youngest son Bimby Yap also made a special appearance.’
Three years ago, Abunda interviewed Aquino in California at a time when she was delicately facing health challenges, but the interview wasn’t for the show. Because of the two’s unshaken friendship that has lasted for many decades, Aquino trusts Abunda with all her heart and soul, and it was not difficult to get her to say yes for this Abunda birthday special.
The colorful journey of Boy Abunda in the halls of the Philippine entertainment industry stands as a powerful testament of ambition, courage, perseverance, and vision. His success story is not only about reaching the pinnacle of media fame, but also about creating a lasting impact that continually uplifts, empowers and inspires people.