The 38th edition of the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards lit up Santa Monica on Saturday, offering a vibrant celebration of entertainment’s most beloved figures. Hosted by the charismatic Tyla, the event was a spectacle of music, stunts, and, of course, the iconic Nickelodeon slime. The evening featured standout performances from Machine Gun Kelly and KATSEYE, as well as thrilling skateboarding stunts by legends Tony Hawk and Katelyn West.
Among the night’s big winners were Ariana Grande, Dwayne Johnson, SZA, Bruno Mars, and Sabrina Carpenter. The stars of popular shows like “Wicked,” “Cobra Kai,” and “The Thundermans: Undercover” also took home coveted awards. A special highlight was Jack Black receiving a Silver Blimp as he was crowned King of Comedy, celebrating his extensive career in humor. Rihanna made history by being awarded the first-ever ICON Silver Blimp.
Star-Studded Performances and Appearances
The awards show was not just about accolades but also about unforgettable performances and appearances. The audience was treated to a lineup of celebrities that included Malia Baker, benny blanco, Kylie Cantrall, Auli’i Cravalho, and Terry Crews, among others. These appearances added to the evening’s excitement and underscored the awards’ reputation as a must-attend event for the entertainment industry.
Television Triumphs
The television category was fiercely competitive, with “The Thundermans: Undercover” winning Favorite Kids’ TV Show. Jack Griffo and Kira Kosarin, stars of the show, were also honored as Favorite Male and Female TV Stars, respectively. “XO, Kitty” claimed the title of Favorite Family TV Show, while “Cobra Kai” stars Xolo Maridueña and Peyton List were recognized for their performances.
Film Favorites
In the film category, “Wicked” emerged as the Favorite Film, with Ariana Grande being celebrated for her role as Glinda. Jack Black’s portrayal in “A Minecraft Movie” earned him the Favorite Movie Actor award. The animated film “Inside Out 2” captured the hearts of many, winning Favorite Animated Movie, while the voices behind “Moana 2,” Dwayne Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho, were acknowledged for their contributions.
Musical Highlights
Music was another major focus of the evening, with SZA and Bruno Mars winning Favorite Female and Male Artist, respectively. The global sensation Stray Kids took home the award for Favorite Music Group. Sabrina Carpenter, who performed the hit song “Taste,” was a standout, winning Favorite Female Breakout Artist and Favorite Album for “Short n’ Sweet.”
Beyond Entertainment: Sports and Digital Creators
The Kids’ Choice Awards also celebrated achievements in sports and digital content creation. Simone Biles and LeBron James were honored as the Favorite Female and Male Sports Stars. In the digital realm, MrBeast and Salish Matter were recognized as Favorite Male and Female Creators, respectively, showcasing the growing influence of online content creators.
Historical Context and Significance
The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards have long been a barometer of youth culture, reflecting the tastes and preferences of younger audiences. This year’s awards continued that tradition, highlighting the evolving landscape of entertainment where digital creators and traditional media figures share the spotlight. The introduction of the ICON Silver Blimp, awarded to Rihanna, marks a new chapter in recognizing long-term contributions to the industry.
“The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards are a celebration of what resonates with young audiences today. It’s about recognizing the stars who inspire and entertain the next generation,” said a spokesperson for Nickelodeon.
Looking Ahead
As the awards wrapped up, attention turned to the future of entertainment. With the rise of streaming platforms and digital content, the landscape is rapidly changing, offering new opportunities for artists and creators. The Kids’ Choice Awards will undoubtedly continue to evolve, reflecting these trends and celebrating the stars who captivate young audiences worldwide.
The 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards can be streamed on Paramount+, allowing fans to relive the excitement and celebrate their favorite stars from the comfort of their homes.
