Charice Pempengco

Here is an SEO-style (though shorter) profile on Charice Pempengco (now known as Jake Zyrus). Let me know if you’d like a longer version, with more quotes, discography, etc.

Jake Zyrus (formerly Charice Pempengco) – Life, Career, and Notable Quotes

Discover the journey of Jake Zyrus (born May 10, 1992), formerly known as Charice Pempengco: from Filipino singing prodigy to international star, personal transformations, major works, and inspiring words.

Introduction

Jake Zyrus (born Charmaine Clarice Relucio Pempengco on May 10, 1992) is a Filipino singer and former child star who gained international fame under the stage name Charice Pempengco.

He rose to prominence through viral videos on YouTube, major television appearances such as The Oprah Winfrey Show, and a recurring role on the U.S. TV series Glee.

Later in life, Zyrus publicly transitioned and adopted his current name.

Early Life & Breakthrough

• Zyrus was born in Cabuyao, Laguna, Philippines, and began singing as a child in local contests.

• His performances were shared by fans online under the username “FalseVoice,” which led to viral attention and eventually international invitations.

• Oprah Winfrey invited him to perform on her show in 2008, which significantly boosted his global profile.

• He also appeared in Glee as Sunshine Corazón in Season 2.

Artistic Career & Works

• Under the name Charice, Zyrus released albums including My Inspiration (2009) and Charice (2010).

• My Inspiration is a tribute album to his mother and includes the single “Always You.”

• He covered songs such as “All by Myself” on Glee, and released collaborations like “Pyramid” (feat. Iyaz).

• In 2017, Zyrus publicly announced his transition and began using the name Jake Zyrus.

Themes & Personal Journey

Zyrus’s story is one of talent, visibility, personal identity, and change. He has spoken about:

• Self-acceptance: embracing authenticity, both musically and personally

• Ambition beyond music: he had expressed desires to pursue studies (e.g. law) in addition to his music career

• Influences & inspirations: he often cites Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, and other major vocal artists

• Navigating public scrutiny: as a young star and later during his transition, he faced challenges of public expectation and identity

Notable Quotes

Here are some representative quotes attributed to him (as Charice), which reflect his values and journey:

“I have come to accept the real me. I have come to love the real me. I now celebrate the real me.” “Being a famous singer or an international singer — that’s my dream, too, but my main goal is to be a real student and be able to graduate and be a lawyer and have my own business.” “I want to have a record with Beyoncé or Lady Gaga. They are both my inspirations. Especially Beyoncé … she’s perfect.” “It’s a crazy busy schedule, but I still have two hours a day for school because it’s a priority.” “When I’m alone in my apartment, I open my Garage Band … record these weird imitations of celebrities — Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Michael Jackson; everybody!” “I don’t want to stay a singer forever. I want to fulfill my dream career as a lawyer!”

These highlight his commitment to authenticity, education, and multiple ambitions beyond just performing.

Lessons & Legacy

1. Talent + opportunity: Zyrus shows how digital platforms (YouTube, social media) can unlock global reach for gifted individuals.

2. Beyond labels: He reminds us that identity can evolve; personal truth can transcend early public perception.

3. Dual ambitions: Dreaming in multiple directions is not a weakness—he balanced musical and academic aspirations.

4. Courage in visibility: His transition and public handling of it have been influential for many facing similar paths.

5. Authenticity matters: Repeatedly in his interviews, he emphasizes acceptance and celebrating the genuine self.

Conclusion

Jake Zyrus (formerly Charice Pempengco) is a compelling figure in contemporary music and identity discourse. From his emergence as a singing prodigy to his reinvention and journey toward authenticity, his story continues to inspire many.