From the classic teenage hit “Mr. DJ” to the Pinoy karaoke staple “Bituing Walang Ningning,” the Megastar Sharon Cuneta has always been one of the most iconic OPM artists and Filipino actresses to ever grace the industry. Her songs, movies, and series have deeply resonated with audiences, cementing her status as the icon she is today.
As she celebrates her milestone 60th birthday, let us look back on five Sharon Cuneta performances on the “Your Face Sounds Familiar” stage that earned the Megastar’s seal of approval.
Klarisse De Guzman (YFSF Season 3, 2021) – “Sana'y Wala Nang Wakas”
Klarisse De Guzman delivered an emotional performance of “Sana'y Wala Nang Wakas” from the 1996 movie of the same title, moving the Megastar herself to tears as she watched Klarisse sing. Later on, Klarisse revealed that as a Sharonian, the pressure of transforming into Sharon was real, and she truly put effort into it.
When asked about turning emotional, Sharon reflected on the song’s incredible lyricism written by Willy Cruz. Through Klarisse’s performance, she once again took the song to heart despite having sung it countless times over the years. “You honor me by singing my song the way I would sing it.” She thanked Klarisse for her amazing performance, telling her that she’s one of the best singers in the industry, and even admitted that she had become a fan of Klarisse.
Judge Ogie added that he is convinced there is nothing Klarisse can’t do, and that the “YFSF” stage truly suits her. “You were superb,” he praised. Listening intently to Klarisse’s performance, Judge Gary said he didn’t hear Klarisse’s voice at all, “It’s the voice of that person [Sharon] that I heard. You were outstanding, Klarisse.” He applauded her wholeheartedly.
Klarisse was the grand winner of the season.
Karla Estrada (YFSF Season 1, 2015) - “Sana'y Wala Nang Wakas”
Sharon Cuneta was already applauding Karla as soon as she stepped onstage. Karla graced the audience with a heartfelt performance of “Sana'y Wala Nang Wakas,” complete with Sharon’s own adlibs woven into the song. The Megastar gave Karla a standing ovation after her performance and even went onstage to hug her.
Judge Gary highlighted Karla’s artistry, saying, “Obvious na pinaghandaan niya talaga ‘yung ginawa niya… all the way, consistent siya from beginning to end.” He described himself as beyond impressed with her performance. Meanwhile, coach Jed Madela called it a “malaking, malaking pasabog,” emphasizing how consistent it was throughout. “Very detailed, pati ‘yung mga kamay… ang galing mo,” he added, applauding Karla.
Lastly, Judge Sharon was all praises for Karla as a great singer and artist. “Overall, from the costume to the look, na ang ganda ganda… fabulous! Absolutely wonderful.” Karla definitely earned Sharon’s seal of approval for her performance.
Karla placed 6th at the end of the season.
Elha Nympha (YFSF Kids Season 1, 2017) – “Bituing Walang Ningning”
Channeling Sharon’s iconic look from the 1985 movie of the same title, Elha delivered the Megastar’s thick yet eargasmic vocals in her rendition of the classic “Bituing Walang Ningning.” A true Sharonian alongside her mom, Elha shared how honored she was to transform into the Megastar.
Judge Sharon watched Elha in awe, amused by her nuances and vocals, and expressed appreciation for the effort Elha made to study her singing style despite having her own. “I have to say you did a very good job.” Elha earned Sharon’s approval, along with the cheers of fellow Sharonians in the studio.
“Nung nag-perform ka, ang masasabi ko doon [ay] game-changer,” Judge Ogie Alcasid remarked, praising Elha’s well-executed performance. Meanwhile, Judge Gary Valenciano described it with an “F,” noting how Elha successfully shifted from her usual “fierce” style to a more “finesse” approach like Sharon. “Nung narinig mo na ‘yung mga hiyawan, hindi ka umalis sa pagiging faithful sa pagiging isang Sharon Cuneta.” He affirmed that Elha is indeed a game-changer.
Elha was the 1st runner up of the season.
Sheena Belarmino (YFSF Kids Season 2, 2018) – “Pangarap na Bituin”
Everyone was met with screams and cheers for Sheena Belarmino as she stepped out of the ‘iconator’ to sing the 1984 hit “Pangarap na Bituin,” the theme song from the movie “Bukas Luluhod ang mga Tala.” Judge Sharon was even seen singing along with Sheena, taking the performance to heart. Afterward, Sheena and Sharon shared a touching duet of the Megastar’s hit “Sana'y Wala Nang Wakas.”
Judge Ogie gave nothing but applause, acknowledging the immense pressure of transforming into the Megastar. “There were parts there na nahuhuli mo talaga… mahirap ‘yung ginawa mo and you did it with flying colors,” he said. Coach Nyoy Volante echoed this, noting how difficult it must be to embody someone as opulent as Sharon. “With what you had, you really made the most out of that,” he added, congratulating Sheena for an amazing performance.
Lastly, Judge Sharon herself was in awe of Sheena’s transformation. “I have to say that I’m very, very happy with what you did.” She admitted that she doesn’t usually react when impersonated, but this time she was satisfied-–-telling Sheena that she felt truly respected as an artist.
Sheena placed 4th at the end of the season.
Alexa Ilacad (YFSF Season 4, 2025) - “Mr. DJ”
What Alexa feared would be a “Mega hirap” performance due to the pressure turned out to be as excellent as the Megastar herself when she sang the 1978 classic “Mr. DJ,” rocking Sharon’s iconic look as well. Alexa dedicated the performance to Sharon, who was immediately all smiles the moment Alexa appeared onstage.
When asked how she felt transforming into Sharon Cuneta, Alexa admitted it was both an honor and a pressure---but ultimately a big privilege to be Sharon for a day. Despite not being in her best condition, Alexa delivered an excellent performance as the teenage version of Sharon. Later on, Alexa and Sharon shared a sweet duet of “Mr. DJ,” swooning the audience.
Before the judges could give their comments, Sharon took a moment to look back on the story behind the song “Mr. DJ.” Released when she was only 12 years old, it marked her second single but her first big hit, written by Rey Valera. For Sharon, it still feels unbelievable how the song skyrocketed her career. Later on, the entire studio sang “Happy Birthday” to the Megastar, who is turning 60.
Switching back to Alexa’s performance, guest judge Erik Santos was the first to share his thoughts. “I was smiling the whole time. Kaya ako naka-smile kasi nakita ko sa’yo ‘yun, sobra ‘yung charm na binigay mo sa amin sa buong performance mo.” He noted how difficult it must have been for Alexa to perform as Sharon, yet she pulled it off very well.
Alexa’s performance brought nostalgic memories to Judge Gary, who noted that he was smiling the entire time just like Erik. “Aabangan talaga kita sa telebisyon para marinig ang boses mo at para makita ang ngiti mo, because that’s how Sharon Cuneta had an impact on me and on many of us.” He said Alexa did a good job.
Sharon herself thanked Alexa for her rendition of the precious song. She emphasized how challenging it must have been to sing a mellow piece, unlike Alexa’s past performances filled with energy and production. “Thank you for doing the honor and making me so proud to know you. You are so good.” Alexa then expressed her words of appreciation to the Megastar herself.
Alexa placed 4th for the week with her performance.
Truly, the Megastar's legacy continues to shine brighter than ever, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike. And these “YFSF” performances prove that Sharon Cuneta's star will never fade.
If you'd like to see more jaw-dropping performances, catch “Your Face Sounds Familiar” weeknights, 7:15PM on Kapamilya Channel, ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) and iWant.