Will Ashley

Early life Will Ashley Ramos de Leon in Imus, Cavite. Ashley was subsequently raised by his mother, with whom he shared a close bond throughout his childhood, while often credited her encouragement and guidance in supporting his acting career.

Ashley's introduction to the entertainment industry came through his aunt, who helped him audition for commercial projects. This led him to begin his career in show business, initially participating in VTRs for commercials, which he admitted was limited at that time.

Career 2013–2018: Early roles Ashley started his career by being cast in several local commercials when he was a child. He officially started his showbiz career in 2013, landing his first role at 11 years old in the GMA afternoon series Villa Quintana, where Ashley portrayed the younger version of Elmo Magalona's character Isagani.

In 2014, he was cast as the young version of Miguel Tanfelix's titular character in the GMA family drama Niño. In 2018, he took on the role of Elijah "Ely" Resurreccion-Venganza, the brother of the titular character, in the telenovela Contessa.

2019–2024: Transition to lead roles and rising popularity In 2019, he joined Jillian Ward, Althea Ablan, and Sofia Pablo in the hit GMA afternoon series Prima Donnas as Nolan Dimasalang, which aired until 2022. Ashley was also cast as the voice actor for Ash Ketchum in the Filipino dub of Pokémon XYZ, the 19th season of the popular franchise. He also portrayed Cris, a teenage boy who becomes a victim of abuse by his male teacher, in the Magpakailanman episode titled "Arrest My Son's Rapist".

He later guest-starred in Pepito Manaloto: Ang Tunay na Kuwento as the lovable and sweet Andy, Clarissa's puppy love. In 2021, before the second season of Prima Donnas aired, Ashley, Ablan, and Alejo appeared together in an episode of Wish Ko Lang!.

Following Prima Donnas, Ashley was slated for the role of Peter Luna in GMA's television drama The Fake Life in 2022. Director Adolfo Alix Jr. praised Ashley for his portrayal of Peter, stating: "He's ready to take on more challenging and out-of-the-box characters! His role [in The Fake Life] took him out of his comfort zone and he absorbed everything which will bring out what he needs to shape Peter's character". Ashley was also featured in Mano Po Legacy: The Flower Sisters, playing Andrew James Chua-Tan, one of Lily Chua's sons. Director Joey Reyes commended his performance in the series, saying it "went beyond expectations" and that he "gave the character the depth and compassion so needed to make Andrew a tragic victim of tradition and expectations". The same year, Ashley starred in his first Regal Studio Presents episode titled "My Favorite Son". He played the titular character Christian, a teenager who dreams of becoming a musician, much to the dismay of his father, who wanted him to pursue a career as a seaman. Ashley also showcased his talent in singing and playing the guitar in the episode. He portrayed Jerry, a friend of Joshua Garcia's character Renz, who falls in love with Gwen, portrayed by Bianca de Vera. Ashley noted that it reminded him of the classic Romeo and Juliet. The romantic drama received positive reviews from critics and garnered a strong following from the general public. It was also the most streamed series in Viu that year. In April, he played the role of viral content creator Sean Beltran in the feature episode of Magpakailanman: The Viral Cancer Survivor. He was also revealed as part of the ensemble cast for the horror film The Vigil. Ashley expressed feeling nervous and shy while preparing for his role as Xander, particularly due to the intimate scenes in the script, but noted that setting aside his nerves was necessary to deliver effective takes during filming. The film premiered in local cinemas in April of the same year and had a limited run. Raymundo later praised Ashley for his professionalism on set, describing him as a "perfect gentleman" during their kissing scene and noting that, despite some initial nervousness, he handled the moment with confidence. He returned to Regal Studio Presents in July for the episode "Loving Miss Selfish", playing Miguel, a gullible but earnest top employee. The episode formed part of the program's third-anniversary celebration. In November, he portrayed Quentin, the son of Candy Pangilinan, in Magpakailanmans 22nd-anniversary opening episode, "My Very Special Son", which told Pangilinan's life story. The episode focused on Pangilinan's experience caring for Quentin, who was diagnosed with ADHD and autism. That year, he also starred in his first Cinemalayan film Balota, directed by Kip Oebanda. Ashley portrayed the role of Enzo, the son of the main character, Teacher Emmy, who is portrayed by Marian Rivera. The film premiered at the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival on August 3. Oebanda later re-edited the film for its mainstream release, noting that the "Marian-Will" dynamic was given more emphasis as the Cinemalayan audiences loved it. It was released in cinemas nationwide on October 16. The indie film has achieved significant commercial success in theaters. In a feature with the Society of Filipino Film Reviewers, he shared that the film became a form of distraction for him, as his grandfather had died a week before filming began. Ashley stated that he immersed himself more fully in the role through Oebanda's distinctive directing style and personal accounts of experiences with policemen, while collaboratively developing his character's backstory with Rivera. His performance was widely praised by online audiences. Ashley was later nominated for Movie Supporting Actor of the Year at the 6th VP Choice Awards and for Best Supporting Actor at the 73rd FAMAS Awards. The following month, Ashley portrayed the role of introverted germaphobe Columbus in the romantic episode Regal Studios Presents: My Sweet Girl Next Door. In March, he was revealed to be one of the 15 initial housemates for Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition, a collaboration between ABS-CBN and GMA for its 20th anniversary. This would be the second time where he would take part in a collaborative venture between the two major networks. He expressed nervousness about the reality show's challenges but was excited about the experience, which he cited as his motivation for joining the program. In the show, Ashley reunited with former Unbreak My Heart co-star Bianca de Vera, Balota co-star Esnyr Ranollo, In August, Ashley signed a recording contract with StarPop, a music label under ABS-CBN. He also appeared as a contestant of the game show Rainbow Rumble. In October, it was revealed that two of the films Ashley is starring in are part of the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival; Bar Boys: After School as Arvin Asuncion and Love You So Bad as Victor "Vic" Alvarez, which was shown in cinemas on December 25.

The television series The Secrets of Hotel 88, in which he is one of the main cast as Kiko Endaya, premiered in February 2026. while its domestic release is on September 9. On September 20, Ashley will release his debut album Liham. Its first single "Paborito", in which he is credited as one of the composers, was pre-released on August 14.

Other ventures

Activism and philanthropy In 2019, Ashley joined the GMA Kapuso Foundation as an advocate for educational support through its pillar project, Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan (UHSK).

In 2020, he announced that he is an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. In a heartfelt Facebook post through his collaboration with Village Pipol for its Pride issue, Ashley publicly expressed his support for the community, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, respect, and advocacy.

In 2025, he participated in an animal welfare fundraiser for Pawssion Project, which raised ₱200,000. Ashley donated his cash prize of ₱500,000 from PBB to Father Al's Children Foundation, which was also his selected beneficiary for the show's charity task. He also volunteered at two community soup kitchens: Trining's Kitchen Stories in Marikina and Urban Chick Maginhawa in Quezon City, where he assisted in preparing and serving hot meals to residents affected by Typhoon Crising and the southwest monsoon (Habagat). Ashley also contributed to online fundraising efforts to support more communities. In September, he participated in Nescafé Plan's "Kape't Bisig" campaign, which aimed to spotlight the stories of young Filipino coffee farmers. As part of the initiative, Ashley lent his TikTok account for a day to Queenie Subasco, a 21-year-old Agriculture Technology graduate and beneficiary of the Nescafé Kape't Bisig sa Pagbabangon Educational Grant, to share her experiences in farming. He expressed support for the campaign's goal of empowering the next generation of farmers. In November, Ashley participated in an event where all proceeds will go to the Autism Society Philippines (ASP).

In 2026, he participated and donated in a charity event of a non-governmental organization supporting children.

Endorsements In 2015–2016, Ashley appeared in several television commercials and had endorsed brands including UFC products, Insular Life, and Rebisco.

In 2025, Ashley was announced as one of Acerpure's newest ambassadors, as well as for Greenwich. He also participated in a promotional collaboration with National Book Store as part of its "National Hunt" campaign. Ashley became the brand ambassador of Blackwater, as well as an endorser of its BW Women's Perfume Lotion Spray.

In 2026, he became the brand ambassador of Piattos and Samsung.

Artistry Influences Ashley was inspired to pursue acting after seeing actor Alden Richards in a mall show when he was just 10 years old. In a 2025 interview with ABS-CBN, he revealed that television personality Melai Cantiveros-Francisco also served as an inspiration for him due to her longevity in the showbiz industry after her PBB stint.

Role choices Although open to the idea of love teams,

Public image In 2018, Ashley was featured in the episode of Ang Pinaka titled "Promising Kapuso Teen Stars", where he ranked ninth. In discussing the actor's popularity, director and writer Don Michael Perez remarked, "There must be something about this boy na iniidolo talaga ng masa" (translated as "that the masses idolize"). Host Rovilson Fernandez predicted that he "is expected to become one of the heartthrobs in the mold of Alden Richards". DJ and showbiz columnist Jana Chuchu agreed, describing Ashley as very charming. Meanwhile, PEP contributor Rommel Gonzales noted that he appeared to be following the path of Miguel Tanfelix.

In 2020, commenting on Ashley's personality behind the camera, Village Pipol described him as a "sweet guy", noting that "his gentleness remains unreal and he almost seems too good to be true".

In 2025, Ashley gained significant online attention in his PBB stint, earning the moniker "Nation's Son". He also led the Nylon Manila poll for favorite housemate of his edition. Ashley became one of the inspirations behind the songs: "Ikaw, Ikaw, Ikaw" by Filipino artist Eliza Maturan and Singaporean artist Icebox, "Obviously" by the indie band Sud, and "Bumabalik" by the indie band Healy After Dark. He was featured in RAWR Mag in a piece highlighting his career growth, rise to fame, and his evolving public persona marked by charm and confidence. Sports Dong-a considered him a "Philippine Gen Z Star" due to his domestic popularity and constant international reach. In a June feature titled "The Slow Burn That Is Will Ashley de Leon", published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Ashley was praised for his growing impact in the entertainment industry. The article highlighted his steady rise in the public eye as a versatile performer, with Balota co-star Sassa Gurl sharing, "Will can sing, dance, and, most especially, he is a great actor—he can capture the audience with just his eyes". He was also featured in the Manila Standard, where his showbiz profile was discussed. Additionally, Ashley was included in Metro Magazine alongside his fellow PBB Big Four placers. His personal growth and transformation were highlighted in an exclusive solo feature titled "How PBB transformed Will Ashley from an Introvert Housemate to the 'Nation's Son'". In VMan Southeast Asias second digital issue, for which he was the cover star, the magazine described him as someone who "embodies a new generation of actors and a different way of moving through the spotlight, one that is calm and resistant to haste", characterizing him as someone disciplined, marked by patience and persistence. Ashley is further described as an actor in his own lane.

In 2026, BusinessMirror writer Ricky Gallardo said that he is one of the most sought-after and in-demand actors due to his back-to-back acting projects, as well as a heavy favorite to win acting awards. PEP contributor Jerry Olea recognized Ashley as one of the fastest-rising actors in the Philippine entertainment industry and director Adolfo Alix Jr. acknowledged his evolution as an actor.

Personal life In August 2019, Ashley started a YouTube channel where he uploaded song covers and vlogs among others. Ashley received a Silver Play Button from YouTube in 2021.

In 2025, during his appearance in PBB, Ashley spoke about his struggles with being vulnerable and expressed how he finds it challenging to open up to other people in fear of his emotions becoming too "burdensome".

Filmography Film

Year Title Role Notes 2024 X & Y Xander Main Cast The Vigil Michael Main Cast 2025 Bar Boys: After School Arvin Asuncion 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival Entry; Supporting Role Love You So Bad Victor "Vic" Alvarez 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival Entry; Main Cast 2026 Carlo Ensemble Cast 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival Entry; Main Cast

Television

Year Title Role Notes 2013 Villa Quintana Young Isagani Credited as Ashley de Leon 2014 My BFF Jasper Credited as Will Ashley de Leon Pari 'Koy Joshua Banal Credited as Will Ashley de Leon Little Nanay Young Peter Episode 1; uncredited 2016 Once Again Young Aldrin Guest Cast Mulawin vs. Ravena Teen Uwak-ak Episode 85; uncredited Magpakailanman: Ang bestfriend kong aso Teen Eddieboy Season 1, Episode 212 2018 Lip Sync Battle Philippines Performer Season 3, Episode 12; Guest Appearance 2019 Maynila: The Wicked Tita Rico Episode 25 (2019) Pepito Manaloto: Ang Tunay na Kwento Andy Episode 333 2019–2022 Prima Donnas Nolan Dimasalang Supporting Role 2021–2022 The World Between Us Young Brian Recurring Role; credited as Will Ashley de Leon 2022 Regal Studio Presents: My Favorite Son Christian Season 2, Episode 5 Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko: Pao Pasaway Pao Season 1, Episodes 176–177 Regal Studio Presents: Once a Dad Manley Season 3, Episode 4 Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko: Game Over Luigi Season 1, Episodes 200–203 Tadhana: Isabella Andrei Season 1, Episodes 224–226 2022–2025 Family Feud PlayerSeason 1, Episode 129 (2022), Season 3, Episode 2 and 142 (2025) Fast Talk with Boy Abunda GuestEpisode 192, Episode 205 2024 Regal Studio Presents: Swipe for Romance Miko Season 11, Episode 1 Regal Studio Presents: Loving Miss Selfish Miguel Season 12, Episode 6 Regal Studio Presents: Pawfect Match Alex Season 13, Episode 4 It's Showtime Guest Performer / Judge For the show's segment "Breaking Muse and Escort Mo, Show Mo" Sanggang Dikit FR Corporal Wilbert Mariano Guest Appearance Rainbow Rumble Contestant Season 2, Episode 16 Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko: Beast Friends Forever Season 1, Episodes 252–253 Babae sa Bintana Justin Vertical series Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 Houseguest Season 4, Days 38 and 63 2026 The Secrets of Hotel 88 Kiko Endaya Main Cast Robert "Boi" Ragasa

Music video appearances Year Song Artist 2025 "Lasik" Hey June!

Discography Album + List of albums, showing selected details Title Details Liham Scheduled: September 20, 2026 Label: StarPop Formats: Digital download, streaming

Singles + List of singles, showing year released, and album name Title Year Album "Paborito" 2026 Liham

Live performances Concerts + List of concerts, showing dates, venues, and locations Title Headlining artist(s) Date and venue Notes Will Ashley Live Will Ashley October 18, 2025 New Frontier Theater, Quezon City First solo concert

Showcases + List of showcases, showing dates, venues, and locations Title Associated album(s) Date and venue Song(s) played Liham: Will Ashley Album Launch Liham September 20, 2026 SM North EDSA Skydome, Quezon City

Accolades Awards and nominations + Name of the award ceremony, year presented, category, recipient of the award and the result of the nomination Award ceremony Year Category Recipient Result FAMAS Award 2025 Best Supporting Actor Balota Gawad Urian Award 2026 Best Supporting Actor Bar Boys: After School Manila Film Critics Circle Awards 2025 Best Supporting Actor Balota Metro Manila Film Festival 2025 Best Actor Love You So Bad Best Supporting Actor Bar Boys: After School Philippine Arts, Film and Television Awards 2026 Best Supporting Actor Balota Platinum Stallion National Media Awards 2026 Best Film Actor Bar Boys: After School PMPC Star Awards for Movies 2025 New Movie Actor of the Year Balota TAG Victorious Awards Chicago 2026 Best Supporting Actor – Film Bar Boys: After School The EDDYS 2026 Best Supporting Actor VP Choice Awards 2025 Movie Supporting Actor of the Year Balota

Other awards + Name of the award ceremony, year presented, category, recipient of the award and the result of the nomination Award ceremony Year Category Recipient Result Anak TV Seal Awards 2025 Male Makabata Star – Television Will Ashley Male Net Makabata Star – Online Metro Manila Film Festival 2025 Montesa Male Star of the Night VP Choice Awards 2026 Face of the Year – Male Adult Zeenfluential Awards 2025 Zeenfluential Dynamic Duo Will Ashley

State and cultural honors + Name of country or organization, year given, and name of honor Country or organization Year Honor Outstanding Men and Women of the Philippines 2023 Outstanding Youth Philippine Empowered Men and Women of the Year 2023 Empowered Teen Star – Multimedia Heartthrob TAG Media Chicagoefn-ua|name=tag|Organized by the Filipino-American community in Chicago, it selects its honorary inductees based on votes cast by the public via Patreon.

Listicles + Name of publisher, year listed, name of listicle and placement Publisher Year Listicle Placement Inquirer 2026 Stars to watch out for in 2026 Manila Standard 2025 People of 2025 PEP 2024 Best Bets 2024: The Next Big Thing Push 2025 Breakout Stars of 2025 The Philippine Star Life 2025 A to Z of 2025: Breakout Stars