The Philippine entertainment industry is in mourning as Red Sternberg, best known for his role as Kiko in the 1990s youth-oriented hit series “T.G.I.S.”, has passed away at the age of 50. His untimely death on May 27, 2025, just three days before what would have been his 51st birthday, has left fans, colleagues, and loved ones reeling with grief and disbelief.
๐ญ A ‘90s Icon Who Left a Lasting Impact on Philippine Television
Red, born Rodwick Sternberg on May 30, 1974, captivated the hearts of a generation as Kiko, the lovable and witty character in “Thank God It’s Sabado”, fondly known as “T.G.I.S.” The show became a cultural phenomenon in the mid-‘90s, forming part of the weekend ritual of Filipino youth who found solace, fun, and inspiration in its stories.
The chemistry Red shared with his on-screen partner Rica Peralejo, who played Michelle, became one of the most memorable love teams in the series. Off-screen, it was later revealed by Rica that they shared a quiet mutual understanding, a secret affection that mirrored their characters’ romance—a revelation that now feels all the more poignant.
๐ A Tragic Loss in the Midst of Celebration
What was supposed to be a week filled with birthday celebrations for the Sternberg family turned into a time of sorrow. His wife, Sandy Sternberg, shared the heartbreaking news on May 30, the day Red would have celebrated his birthday. In a post filled with raw emotion, she described the profound pain of receiving birthday wishes while also grappling with unimaginable loss.
“To be greeted 'happy birthday' and 'sorry for your loss' at the same time three consecutive days… May was our month… My husband suddenly passed away the morning of Tuesday, May 27th,” she wrote. “To those who knew him from his early acting days, he was 'Kiko,' but to our three kids and I, he was simply Daddy/Dada.”
Sandy asked for privacy as their family mourns the sudden passing. Details of Red’s cause of death and memorial services have not yet been disclosed.
๐ A Wave of Tributes From the 'T.G.I.S.' Family and Fans ๐ฌ
The “T.G.I.S. Barkada” quickly rallied on social media to honor their fallen friend. Director Mark Reyes confirmed the sad news and spoke for the entire cast when he said, “We are heartbroken to lose one of our own.”
Bobby Andrews, one of Red’s closest friends in showbiz, shared throwback photos and a heartfelt message on Instagram:
“He was the kind of person who could thrive anywhere, adapt to anything, and still stay true to himself… I’ll miss his presence, his humor, his heart.”
Angelu de Leon, visibly shocked, simply posted three broken heart emojis and Red’s character name “Kiko” on her Instagram Stories. Similarly, Ciara Sotto and Michael Flores reposted tributes, while Rica Peralejo wrote:
“Super sad. Red is Michelle’s Kiko and we will always be good friends. Our entire barkada is devastated.”
These messages reflect the enduring bond formed among the cast, a bond that fans saw every Saturday on their screens and now feel deeply in this time of grief.
๐ฌ A Legacy That Will Always Be Remembered
Beyond “T.G.I.S.,” Red Sternberg also appeared in films like “Silaw” and “Are You Afraid of the Dark,” but it was his role as Kiko that cemented his legacy in Filipino pop culture. His authentic charisma, humor, and natural screen presence made him unforgettable to fans and colleagues alike.
With T.G.I.S. set to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, the timing of Red’s death is especially bittersweet. As the show looks back on three decades of friendship, fun, and youthful nostalgia, one of its brightest stars will now be remembered in memorial rather than celebration.
๐ Final Thoughts and Collective Grief
In this moment of loss, the legacy of Red Sternberg lives on through the lives he touched—as a beloved actor, devoted husband, and loving father. His contributions to Philippine television will never be forgotten, and his portrayal of Kiko remains etched in the hearts of many.
As we remember him, let’s honor the joy he brought and the memories he helped create. Rest in peace, Red. You will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
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