Despite his early exit on 'StarStruck V,' Sef Cadayona still managed to become a bankable comedy actor in showbiz.
Sef, or John Paul Joseph Cadayona in real life, slowly carved his own path from showbiz--from playing supporting roles to having his own show.
Naturally a funny guy, the Kapuso actor further honed his skills when he joined GMA Network's flagship comedy gag show 'Bubble Gang' in April 2013.
Sef attracted more attention with his impeccable timing and on-screen chemistry with award-winning comedian Michael V. in the viral sketch titled "Ikaw at ang Ina."
In 2014, his talent as a comedy actor was recognized after bringing home the trophy in Golden Screen TV Award and in the following year scored another award again.
Time to look back and get to know more about the comedy gem, Sef Cadayona in this gallery.
Before pursuing a career in show business, John Paul Joseph Cadayona was an ordinary guy, who was raised in Las Piñas City. He finished high school at the Divine Light Academy and graduated with a Media Arts degree Major in Broadcasting at San Beda College in Alabang.
Using his screen name as Sef Cadayona, he entered season five of StarStruck. Unfortunately, his journey ended in December 2009. Fellow finalists Steven Silva and Sarah Lahbati were hailed as Ultimate Male and Female Surivor, respectively, during that season.
Sef's career blossomed by doing several comedy shows. In fact, he was able to work with the biggest names in the field including Michael V. in 'Bubble Gang' and Vic Sotto in 'Vampire Ang Daddy Ko' (2013).
He further honed his acting skills by taking on other roles like in 'Meant To Be' (2017) and the telefantasya series 'Sirkus' (2018).
GMA Network gave Sef Cadayona the opportunity to star in his own show in 2015. He led the cast of the GMA News and Public Affairs situational comedy 'Juan Tamad' with Max Collins.
After years of hard work, Sef's comedy skills got him a recognition for Outstanding Supporting Actor in A Gag/ Comedy Program in 2014 and 2015 at the Golden Screen TV Award. He also earned the nod of critics in the 28th PMPC Star Awards for TV after winning in the Best Comedy Actor category.
Sef Cadayona also showed a huge potential in the film industry by winning the award for Best Breakthrough Performance By An Actor in "Gayak '' at the 10th edition of the Golden Screen Awards for Film in 2013.
Sef also ventured into the world of music by joining his fellow 'Bubble Gang' stars in the boy group named PARD.
He is also active in social media, creating funny video content for his TikTok account.
Sef is doting fur parent to Rocket, Chewie, and Baldo.
In 2021, Sef checked one item from his bucket list by hosting the all-original game show 'Game of the Gens' on GTV.
Aside from his job in front of the camera, Sef Cadayona is now expanding his skill as a comedian by writing for 'Bubble Gang.'
Sef Cadayona remains a loyal Kapuso after renewing his management contract with GMA Artist Center.
Currently, Sef plays the role of young Pepito in the 'Pepito Manaloto: Ang Unang Kuwento' prequel with fellow Kapuso star Mikee Quintos.
In an interview, Sef shared that he is grateful and honored to be part of the 25th anniversary of GMA flagship comedy gag show 'Bubble Gang.'
"Nakakataba nga ng puso e, kasi who would've thought na mapapabilang kami sa 25th year ng isang comedy gag show napakalaking blessing nito kasi hindi lahat mabibigyan ng pagkakataon," he said.
It was only in August 2023 when Sparkle-comedian actor Sef Cadayona confirmed to the public that he is engaged to his non-showbiz girlfriend Nelan Vivero. Sef popped the question to Nelan on February 14, 2023.
In October 2023, Sef happily announced that they are already expecting their first child.