Coming off the hype of the premiere of Diamond Hunt, the reality show from kumu, distributed by ABS-CBN, audiences can look forward to more than just thrilling challenges and captivating drama. This February, "Diamond Hunt" proudly celebrates diversity and inclusivity in both its casting and leadership.

Some stand-out members of the LGBTQ+ community include Tik Tok Stars, Sassa Gurl (one of the hosts of the series) and Chardie B, a competitor of the show. While these two offer a lot of comedic moments to the show, their presence in this outdoors gameshow brings an air of competitive nature, especially for Chardie who gradually emerges as an outspoken and formidable competitor. While he tries to “lay low,” Chardie is an obvious string-puller, convincing the team to vote for Den Den as the leader by his one nomination and voting Monique out to eliminate her from the game. 

Tessa, another of the ‘Diamond Hunters,’ is a Filipina American that initially expressed her hesitancy in joining the competition because she’s plus-size and hasn’t always felt accepted in the Philippines. In the first game, Tessa emerges as one of the more aggressive players, eliminating both Bea and Monique de los Santos. Throughout the show, Tessa challenges the notion of body shaming and what it means to celebrate one’s body - she becomes a key player in turning the tides around for Team Karlithrone, leading them to back-to-back wins sending Team Bathala to the Bakunawa Pit. She advocates for differences in bodies and self-love, showcasing that even “this thick girl is coming your way!”

Executive Producer Leo Albea, also part of the LGBTQ+ community, leads the charge in championing diversity both on and off the screen - specifically with his passion in bringing important discussions about Filipinos into the mainstream. While Diamond Hunt is not specifically a show centered on any one of these topics, the hunters themselves bring their perspectives and communities to the big screen in who they are fighting for. Whether it be seafarers with Bervan, OFW’s with Bea, or Chardie and Tessa with their own personal identities, the clash of these diverse Filipinos bring a mix of entertainment and emotion.

Diamond Hunt, in celebration of Philippine conservation, is also filmed at Masungi Georeserve, located in Baras, Rizal, a conservation area with the goal of restoring over 2,700 hectares of deforested land. Many of the “Diamond Hunters” and hosts also lended their voice to #SaveMasungi.

"Diamond Hunt" not only celebrates diversity through its cast and crew but also through its themes and narratives. As the contestants navigate through challenges and form alliances, the show emphasizes the importance of acceptance, respect, and unity in the face of adversity. Watch full episodes every Wednesday at 10 PM PHT at bit.ly/diamondhuntYT!

Diamond Hunt is streaming on ABS-CBN Entertainment's Official YouTube Channel, iWantTFC, The Filipino Channel, and IPTV

Writer: Judy Ann Arias

Editor: One Down Staff