A wave of nostalgia swept through social media after actor Akihiro Blanco shared photos hinting at a “mini reunion” of the Artista Academy Batch 2012, one of TV5’s most memorable reality competition casts.
In Blanco’s post, he was seen with fellow alumni including celebrity couple Vin Abrenica and Sophie Albert, Shaira Diaz, and Mark Neumann. The gathering quickly caught the attention of fans who fondly remember the 2012 show that launched several now-established names in Philippine entertainment.

First aired in 2012, Artista Academy became a stepping stone for award-winning actors, actresses, and TV hosts, earning recognition for its intensive training format and competitive structure that helped shape young hopefuls into well-rounded performers.

Adding to the excitement, producers confirmed that the program will return in 2026 through a partnership between MQuest Ventures and Studio VIVA, aiming to discover a new generation of Filipino talents.
With its comeback slated for later this year, the reunion of Batch 2012 serves as a timely reminder of the show’s legacy—raising anticipation among fans for the next wave of aspiring artists ready to follow in their footsteps.
