The triumph of Sofronio Vasquez on The Voice Season 26 has transcended the confines of the NBC stage, evolving into a heartwarming tale of mentorship and friendship that continues to thrive long after the confetti settled. The 32-year-old Filipino singer, who made history as the first Filipino and Asian male to win the U.S. version of the competition, has maintained a close connection with his coach, Michael Bublé, through regular FaceTime calls. On June 5, 2025, Vasquez shared a screenshot of one such call on Instagram, captioning it, “Not only is he my Coach from The Voice, which historically made us win, but he also became family.” As of 03:35 PM +07 on Thursday, July 10, 2025, this ongoing relationship has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, shedding light on the genuine bond forged during the show and its enduring impact on Vasquez’s rising career.

Vasquez’s journey to victory began in September 2024, when his soulful rendition of Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down” during the blind auditions earned a rare four-chair turn from coaches Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg, and Reba McEntire. His choice of Bublé as his mentor proved pivotal, guiding him through battles, knockouts, and live performances, culminating in a win on December 10, 2024. The finale saw Vasquez deliver standout covers of Sia’s “Unstoppable” and “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, alongside a duet of “Who’s Lovin’ You” with Bublé, securing the $100,000 prize and a recording contract with Republic Records. His victory, marked by a tearful embrace with Bublé, was more than a professional triumph—it laid the foundation for a personal alliance that has only deepened since.

The FaceTime connection highlights a promise Bublé made to his contestants. Unlike many coaching relationships that fade post-show, Bublé has kept his word to support Vasquez and Season 27 winner Adam David, both of whom he coached to victory. Vasquez’s June 5 post, featuring a candid call with Bublé, showcased their ongoing collaboration, with the singer noting, “He calls and we talk about everything—music, life, family.” This sentiment was echoed in a May 22, 2025, interview with Good Housekeeping, where David revealed similar conversations, hinting at potential collaborations. Vasquez told WKTV in Utica that Bublé’s involvement extends to connecting him with industry insiders like writers and producers, a mentorship that has fueled his post-Voice success.

Since his win, Vasquez has been on a whirlwind trajectory. After a hero’s welcome in the Philippines, where he was recognized by the Senate, he’s booked concerts across the U.S. and internationally, including a major solo debut at Dubai’s World Trade Centre on September 6, 2025. His July 19, 2025, performance at The Townhall NYC further cements his status, with a moving rendition of “America the Beautiful” at the Belmont Derby Invitational on July 4, 2025, captivating audiences. Bublé’s guidance has been instrumental, with Vasquez crediting him for opening doors, a bond reminiscent of his late father, Oniol, who inspired his musical path. “Nakita ko tatay ko sa kanya,” Vasquez shared, reflecting on the emotional resonance of their relationship.

Bublé, for his part, has embraced this role with enthusiasm. In a December 2024 People interview after Vasquez’s win, he said, “This is personal for me… when the cameras shut off, we’re friends.” Their May 7, 2025, reunion lunch, documented with a playful caption about skipping dessert, underscored this camaraderie. Bublé’s track record—winning Season 26 with Vasquez and Season 27 with David—positions him as a mentor who invests beyond the show. His return for Season 28, alongside Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan, and Reba McEntire, suggests he’ll continue this legacy, with Vasquez and David hinting at joint projects that could amplify their voices.

The cultural impact of their bond is significant. Vasquez’s win as the first Filipino champion has galvanized the Filipino community, with his Dubai concert poised to draw a massive diaspora audience. Bublé’s involvement, from FaceTime calls to industry connections, reflects a mentorship model that contrasts with the often-transient nature of reality TV coaching. Fans on social platforms have celebrated this, with posts like “Michael and Sofronio’s friendship is goals!” and “Proof The Voice can change lives,” highlighting the authenticity of their connection. The story also taps into 2025’s narrative of global talent, with Vasquez’s rise paralleling other international breakthroughs.

Yet, the relationship isn’t without scrutiny. Some question whether Bublé’s involvement might overshadow Vasquez’s independent growth, given the singer’s established career. Others note the logistical challenges of maintaining such a bond across continents, with Vasquez now based in Upstate New York and Bublé splitting time between Canada and the U.S. Still, Vasquez’s gratitude—“I’m blessed to have him as family”—and Bublé’s consistent support counter these concerns, suggesting a partnership built on mutual respect.

The FaceTime calls offer a glimpse into their dynamic. Vasquez’s Instagram posts, including the June 5 screenshot, show casual chats that extend beyond music, a detail that humanizes their stardom. Bublé’s playful engagement, seen in their lunch meetup, complements Vasquez’s earnest drive, creating a mentor-protégé relationship that feels organic. This continuity has kept fans engaged, with some speculating about a duet or collaborative album, though no official plans have surfaced.

For viewers, this story enriches the The Voice narrative. Clips of their calls, shared via Vasquez’s social media, and past finale moments—like the December 10, 2024, trophy embrace—are accessible online. Watching tips include revisiting Vasquez’s “A Million Dreams” performance to see their chemistry, or following his Dubai concert livestream for a live update. Alternatives like American Idol archives offer coach-contestant tales, but the Bublé-Vasquez saga stands out for its post-show depth. As Season 28 filming ramps up, their bond could inspire new contestants, proving The Voice’s potential to forge lasting ties.

As July 2025 unfolds, the FaceTime connection between Vasquez and Bublé symbolizes more than mentorship—it’s a testament to the power of music to unite. From a blind audition to international stages, their journey continues to resonate, a story of triumph, family, and the enduring call of a coach who “calls and…” keeps the dream alive.