A performance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2007 launched the international career of this Filipino singer, then known professionally as Charice Pempengco. Born in 1992 in Cabuyao, the performer transitioned from local television talent competitions to global stages, eventually working with producers like David Foster and appearing as a recurring cast member on the musical-comedy series Glee.
Early Career and Internet Discovery
Raised by his mother, Racquel, Zyrus entered nearly a hundred singing contests starting at age seven. In 2005, he reached the finals of the Philippine talent show Little Big Star, finishing in third place. Wider recognition arrived in 2007 when a supporter under the alias FalseVoice uploaded his performances to YouTube, accumulating over 15 million views. These videos attracted Swedish music publishers, leading to demo recordings and an invitation to perform on the South Korean show Star King.
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Following his 2007 appearance with Ellen DeGeneres, Zyrus made a pivotal debut on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2008. During a later appearance, he was surprised by Céline Dion via satellite, who invited him to perform at Madison Square Garden. This period included tours with Andrea Bocelli and the release of his international studio album, Charice, in 2010. The record reached number eight on the Billboard 200, the first such feat for an Asian solo artist. His single 'Pyramid,' featuring Iyaz, became a global chart entry.
Acting and Personal Transition
Expanding into acting, Zyrus joined the cast of Glee in 2010 as Sunshine Corazon. He later served as a judge on the Philippine version of The X Factor in 2012. After identifying as a lesbian between 2013 and 2017, he came out as a transgender male. Following testosterone treatment and male chest reconstruction surgery, he adopted the name Jake Zyrus, retiring his previous professional moniker.
Fast facts
- Born: 1992, Cabuyao, Philippines
- Professional name formerly used: Charice Pempengco
- Glee character: Sunshine Corazon
- Billboard 200 debut: Charice (2010)
- Significant collaboration: David Foster
- The X Factor role: Judge (2012)
- Occupations: Singer, actor, television producer, YouTuber
Questions readers ask
What was Jake Zyrus's first major international break?
He gained international attention after appearing on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2007.
Why did he change his name from Charice?
After coming out as a transgender male and beginning testosterone treatment, he adopted the name Jake Zyrus.
