A father’s bittersweet milestone: Kim Atienza marks 59th birthday with a heavy heart

• Veteran TV host Kim Atienza described his 59th birthday as the most difficult one he has ever experienced
• The occasion marked the first time the host celebrated his birthday without his youngest daughter Emman Atienza
• During an on-air celebration with fellow hosts Atienza wished for the continued success of their show and for his daughter's legacy of kindness to live on
• The Atienza family has spent the recent holiday season and new year navigating life after the tragic loss of Emman last October

Veteran TV host Kim Atienza, popularly known as "Kuya Kim," reached a significant milestone this January as he turned 59. However, what should have been a day of pure celebration was filled with deep reflection and a touch of sadness. During a simple surprise celebration prepared by his fellow variety show hosts, Kim opened up about the emotional weight of the day, describing it as the "toughest birthday" of his life.

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As he stood before a birthday cake, Kim was asked to share his wishes. While he expressed gratitude for the show’s fourth year and hoped for continued blessings, his personal wish was centered on his family. “This is the toughest birthday in my life because it’s the first birthday na wala ‘yung anak ko, wala si Emman,” Kim admitted, his voice reflecting the pain of a father still grieving. Emmanuelle "Emman" Atienza, his youngest child, passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 19.

Despite the heartache, Kim chose to focus on the light his daughter left behind. He expressed a desire for her memory to be a source of inspiration for others. “But I’d like for the memory of Emman to continue with kindness, good vibes. May people celebrate her life, and may my birthday be the start of this,” he added. On Instagram, he shared a bittersweet gallery of photos ranging from his childhood to Emman’s wake, thanking God for 59 years of life despite the recent "darkest moment."

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The Atienza family has been very vocal about their journey through grief, having recently marked their first Christmas and New Year without Emman. On Christmas Eve, Kim posted a throwback photo from 2024, the last time their family was physically complete. His wife, Felicia, also shared a family photo to welcome 2026, praying for grace as they move forward. Since the tragedy, the family has advocated for compassion and courage, values that Emman—a known mental health advocate—held dear.

Kim Atienza is a prominent Filipino TV host, weather anchor, and former politician. He became a household name for his educational segments and "Kuya Kim" persona, often sharing trivia and wildlife facts. He is the son of former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza. His daughter, Emman, was a rising social media influencer and mental health advocate who used her platform to destigmatize mental illness before her untimely passing in Los Angeles, California.

Even amidst the grief, the Atienza family continues to show strong support for one another. Kim Atienza recently received a touching and affectionate birthday greeting from his wife, Felicia Hung Atienza, which moved many netizens. Felicia expressed her unwavering love and admiration for Kim, highlighting his strength as a husband and a father through their family's most challenging year.

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In a lighter moment during his birthday, Kim's fellow celebrities and friends also made sure he felt loved and appreciated. Herlene Budol recently shared some fun and lighthearted moments from their private group chat with Mark, showing how they cheered up Kim on his special day. The snippets showed the camaraderie between the hosts and the efforts they make to keep a positive environment despite personal struggles.

Source: KAMI.com.gh