Lolit “Manay Lolit” Solis, veteran showbiz columnist and talent manager, dies at 78

Photo Credit: @Lolit Solis Facebook account

MANILA — Lolit “Manay Lolit” Solis, one of Philippine showbiz’s most enduring personalities—known for her decades-long work as an entertainment columnist, television host, and talent manager—passed away on Thursday, July 3. She was 78.

Her death was confirmed by her daughter, Angel Liza “Sneezy” Pasamonte, who said Solis died peacefully in the hospital. She had been undergoing dialysis since 2022 due to chronic kidney disease. According to family and news reports, the cause of death was complications involving her heart and kidneys.

“Our beloved Manay Lolit Solis has peacefully joined her Creator,” Pasamonte said in a family statement. “Rest well now in the loving embrace of our Lord.”

Six decades in showbiz

Born on May 20, 1947, in Sampaloc, Manila, Solis entered journalism in the late 1960s and quickly transitioned from police reporting to entertainment writing. With sharp wit and a fearless voice, she became one of the most recognized figures in showbiz media.

She gained nationwide popularity as co-host of GMA’s Startalk from 1995 to 2015. Behind the scenes, she managed the careers of major stars including Bong Revilla, Christopher de Leon, Lorna Tolentino, Paolo Contis, and Gabby Concepcion.

Health struggles and continued engagement

Solis was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2022 and began undergoing dialysis twice a week, later increasing to three sessions weekly. In early 2023, she suffered a suspected mild stroke after a treatment session, but recovered and continued working. Despite physical challenges, she remained active—writing columns, posting on Instagram, and staying connected to her audience. In one of her last reflections, she wrote:

“I have so many things to be thankful for. If I were to leave now, I have no regrets.”

An outpouring of tributes

Her passing prompted tributes from across the entertainment industry. Actor Niño Muhlach wrote simply: “Paalam Nanay Lolit Solis.” Former senator Bong Revilla, one of her longtime clients, said she was “a rock and second mother” to his family. Actor Jolo Revilla remembered her unwavering loyalty. Entertainment editor Salve Asis described her as “a woman of strength and wit who left her mark on the industry she loved.”

Scandals, comebacks, and a lasting voice

Solis was no stranger to controversy. She was at the center of the 1994 Manila Film Festival awards scandal, later taking full responsibility and facing legal consequences.

Despite the setback, she regained her footing and continued her work in showbiz with candor and credibility. Her commentary remained widely followed, and she was known for mentoring both rising stars and industry veterans.

Final reflections

With a career that spanned nearly 60 years, Solis helped shape the modern landscape of Philippine entertainment journalism. She championed Filipino talent, mentored artists, and never backed away from speaking her truth. As the showbiz world mourns her passing, her legacy as a bold voice, loyal ally, and cultural mainstay lives on.