Zsa Zsa Padilla recently admitted that she has become “paranoid” over the recent deaths of legendary artists Pilita Corrales, Nora Aunor, and Hajji Alejandro, revealing that their passing has made her more concerned about the health of her colleagues.


(From left) Zsa Zsa Padilla, Pilita Corrales, Nora Aunor, and Hajji Alejandro. Images: Hannah Mallorca/INQUIRER.net, FILE PHOTOS

Speaking at a media gathering for her upcoming 40th anniversary concert, Padilla shared her reflections on how these tragic losses have affected her, especially since she herself has been active in the showbiz industry for over four decades. She described how the consecutive deaths of these well-loved entertainers left her feeling unsettled.

Padilla recounted her feelings of sorrow and disbelief, especially after Hajji Alejandro’s death. "My last message about Hajji Alejandro was [done with a] heavy heart. Sabi ko, 'Bakit gan’un? Parang nagsusunud-sunod naman yung [pagkamatay ng] mga performers, mga singers. Nakakalungkot talaga,” she said, expressing her sadness over the string of losses.


Image: Facebook/Hajji Alejandro

She also shared how the passing of Pilita Corrales, whom she considered an idol, deeply moved her. “Lalo na kay Tita Pilita, umiyak talaga ako kasi idol ko siya talaga eh. Mga idols ko when I was starting my career, I was looking up to Pilita, Celeste Legaspi, and Kuh Ledesma. Sila yung mga inidolo ko talaga,” Padilla recalled, noting the impact of these icons on her early career.


Pilita Corrales. Image: Instagram/@pilitacorrales

After Hajji’s passing, Padilla became especially concerned about her fellow judges on Tawag ng Tanghalan (TNT), Nonoy Zuñiga and Marco Sison, and even jokingly checked in on their health. “Tapos when Hajji passed, nag-’TNT’ kami the other day, nakita ko si Nonoy Zuñiga. Sabi ko, ‘Noy, healthy ka naman, ha?’ Tapos nakita ko si Marco Sison, ‘Marco, healthy ka, ha?’ Natawa sila, [sabi], ‘Huwag ka nang mapraning!’ Sabi ko, ‘Nakakapraning eh,’” Padilla laughed, admitting that the deaths had left her feeling uneasy.


Nora Aunor walks on the red carpet as she arrives for the screening of “Sinapupunan (Thy Womb)” during the 69th Venice Film Festival on September 6, 2012 at Venice Lido. Image: TIZIANA FABI/AFP

Padilla also shared how her grandmother was a lifelong fan of Nora Aunor, affectionately known as “Ate Guy,” and how watching Aunor’s Superstar variety show was a cherished family tradition. “Si Ate Guy din siyempre… talagang sobrang idolo siya ng aking lola. Noong bata ako, mas prefer ng tatay ko ang basketball… hindi ko naman maintindihan itong basketball. Aakyat ako sa bahay ng lola ko sa San Juan and sigurado ‘yun, [manonood kami ng] ‘Superstar,’” she recalled.

The deaths of Corrales, Aunor, and Alejandro occurred in quick succession—Corrales on April 12, Aunor on April 16, and Alejandro on April 21, which only deepened the emotional toll on Padilla.

Short Biography of the Characters:

• Zsa Zsa Padilla: Zsa Zsa Padilla is a celebrated Filipina singer and actress, best known for her powerful voice and captivating performances. With a career spanning over 40 years, she has become a staple in the Filipino entertainment industry. Zsa Zsa is also known for her personal life, including her long marriage to comedian Dolphy, and is recognized for her versatility as a performer across film, television, and live music.
  
  

• Pilita Corrales: Pilita Corrales, known as "Asia's Queen of Songs," was a pioneering Filipino singer and actress who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She was admired for her incredible vocal range and contributions to Filipino music. Her passing on April 12, 2025, was deeply mourned by fans and colleagues alike.
  
  

• Nora Aunor: Nora Aunor, also known as "Ate Guy," is one of the most iconic and influential figures in Philippine cinema and television. Her contributions to Filipino entertainment earned her numerous awards and accolades. Aunor passed away on April 16, 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
  
  

• Hajji Alejandro: Hajji Alejandro was a beloved Filipino singer and actor, known for his smooth voice and memorable hits. He passed away on April 21, 2025, following a long and successful career in music and entertainment.
  
  

As Zsa Zsa Padilla prepares for her Through the Years 40th anniversary concert, she continues to reflect on the lasting impact of the icons she’s lost and the bonds she shares with her fellow entertainers. The deaths of these legends have not only marked the end of an era but also brought Zsa Zsa closer to her colleagues as they support each other in navigating the challenges of life and health.