‘Behind the disciplined exterior was a heart of gold, full of warmth, humor and a treasure trove of stories that he’d lovingly share with those close to him.’
Veteran director Fritz Ynfante passed away on Monday, July 21, at the age of 84. He was well-loved in the entertainment industry for his work in television and theater.
His most notable projects include: “Patok Na Patok,” a lunchtime show aired on Channel 4 anchored by Ariel Ureta with different co-hosts such as Pops Fernandez and Jackie Lou Blanco; “Penthouse Live!,” a late-night show that aired on GMA-7 for 13 years starring Pops Fernandez and Martin Nievera; “It’s a Date,” a dating game show originally hosted by Plinky Recto before Giselle Sanchez took over with Tom Lupton; and “Keep on Dancing,” a dance show featuring Charlene Gonzales alongside Troy Montero, Marc Nelson and Franco Laurel.
I worked with Tito Fritz as a writer in “It’s a Date,” “Keep on Dancing” and his many awards and pageant specials. He was a director of uncompromising standards, where strictness met precision and perfectionism ruled the stage. Yet, to those of us who had the privilege of working with him, he was a darling.
Behind the disciplined exterior was a heart of gold, full of warmth, humor and a treasure trove of stories that he’d lovingly share with those close to him.
Tito Fritz would often speak with affection of his favorite hosts — the charismatic Martin Nievera, whose talent and showmanship he admired, and Edu Manzano, whose wit and versatility he praised. And among singers, Marco Sison held a special place in his heart — a voice that Tito Fritz would guide with care, shaping performances that would leave audiences in awe.
In the midst of rehearsals where he’d demand the best out of every performer, Tito Fritz would reveal glimpses of his soft side — a twinkle in his eye during a funny anecdote, a chuckle at a well-timed joke or a smile when talking about the stars he worked with. Those moments humanized the perfectionist, showed us a man who cared deeply about the craft of entertainment and the people who made it happen.
And would you believe, in one of his crazy-funny moments, Tito Fritz agreed to be photographed nude for “Metro Magazine” as a charming cherubim?
As Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez have led the tribute to Tito Fritz, Edu Manzano posted a sentimental message:
“Lost another dear friend today. Direk Fritz touched so many lives in and out of the business. Losing him leaves a quiet emptiness that words can hardly fill. Rest In Paradise mon directeur.”
Joey Albert also put forth a tearful post:
“Adieu, beloved Tito Fritz. To you is owed the glory of the 80s music and entertainment industry. You brought class, elegance, much needed discipline and professionalism that brought our music industry to its golden age. One goodbye was not enough but the love in the tears we shared then will be an everlasting memory. I will miss you immensely but you live in me always… each time I stand on that stage.”
ZsaZsa Padilla, for her part, shared Tito Fritz’s obituary notice and wrote,
“Rest in peace, Tito Fritz.”
ZsaZsa’s musical special in ABS-CBN, which was directed by Tito Fritz, showed his deep admiration of Barbra Streisand. Many peers associated him with Barbra, whose elegance and artistry mirrored his own. ZsaZsa’s show had the heart, humor, elegance and class — and that Barbra love — as executed by Tito Fritz.
His legacy lives on in the polished performances he directed, in the memories of his favorites like Martin, Edu, Marco, Pops, Joey and ZsaZsa and in the hearts of those who saw beyond the strict director to the darling he was.
Rest in power and class, Tito Fritz. May you find joy in the company of the happy cherubims in heaven. And in heaven, yes, you have a show — one where every performance is flawless, every note is perfect and every moment is filled with the music and laughter you loved.
