The Philippine adaptation of the Thai hit Bad Genius is set to stream soon on Viva One, with Atasha Muhlach taking on the lead role. She will be joined by Jairus Aquino, Gab Lagman, and Hyacinth Callado in this much-anticipated remake under the direction of award-winning filmmaker Derick Cabrido.
Originally a 2017 Thai blockbuster, Bad Genius follows a top student who turns exam cheating into a lucrative scheme. Its success led to a 2020 series adaptation, an Indian remake in 2023 (Farrey), and an American version in 2024.
Atasha, daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez, will play Lin, a brilliant scholarship student who masterminds the elaborate cheating operation. During a press conference, she shared her excitement and nerves about taking on the role, emphasizing her rigorous preparation, including script work and acting workshops. She also credited her parents for offering valuable advice.
Jairus Aquino will portray Bank, Lin’s academic rival who later joins her scheme due to financial difficulties. Gab Lagman takes on the role of Pat, a wealthy yet struggling student who helps expand their illicit business. Hyacinth Callado will play Pat’s girlfriend and Lin’s first friend in school, who becomes the group’s first client.
Director Derick Cabrido admitted the challenges of adapting a globally renowned story, acknowledging high expectations from audiences. He assured fans that meticulous preparation, from production design to scoring, went into ensuring a fresh take on the material.
The cast also includes Romnick Sarmenta and Yayo Aguila as Lin’s parents, Ruffa Gutierrez as the strict school principal, Irma Adlawan as Bank’s mother, and Joko Diaz as Pat’s father.
With its high-stakes plot and fresh Filipino perspective, Bad Genius: The Series is expected to be one of Viva One’s most exciting releases.
