The 2025 Kids Choice Awards dazzled audiences worldwide with a night packed full of slime, laughter, and unforgettable performances. Held live from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica on June 21, the event was hosted by South African pop sensation Tyla, making history as the first African to take on the Kids Choice Awards hosting duties. This milestone added extra excitement to a ceremony already known for its family-friendly fun and celebrity surprises.
Tyla’s energetic presence set the tone for the night, as she led viewers through a lineup of high-profile nominees, live performances, and the iconic slimings that have become a hallmark of the Kids Choice Awards. With the show simulcast across Nickelodeon, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., TeenNick, MTV2, CMT, and various streaming platforms, fans everywhere were able to join in the celebration.
Historic Hosting and Special Honors
Tyla’s selection as host marked a significant step forward for the Kids Choice Awards, reflecting a growing commitment to global representation and inclusivity in children’s entertainment. Her enthusiasm and charisma shone through every segment, making her a favorite among both young viewers and longtime fans of the show.
A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of the King of Comedy Award to Jack Black. Known for his iconic roles in family films and his infectious sense of humor, Black became only the second recipient of this prestigious blimp. The honor recognized his enduring contributions to comedy and entertainment, adding a nostalgic touch for those who grew up watching his movies.
Star-Studded Lineup and Surprise Victories
The 2025 Kids Choice Awards featured an impressive roster of nominees, with Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Kendrick Lamar each earning four nominations. Other notable names included Jack Black, Dwayne Johnson, and Jelly Roll, each with three nods. The awards also welcomed first-time nominees such as Gracie Abrams, Florence Pugh, Chappell Roan, and Cynthia Erivo, signaling a fresh wave of talent in the entertainment industry.
Some of the night’s most talked-about wins included:
- Selena Gomez for Favorite Female Artist
- Kendrick Lamar for Favorite Male Artist and Favorite Song
- Travis Kelce for Favorite Male Sports Star
- Wizards Beyond Waverly Place for Favorite Kids TV Show
Additional winners included David Henrie, Celina Smith, and Xolo Maridueña, each celebrated for their outstanding contributions to film, television, and music.
Memorable Moments and Performances
The 2025 Kids Choice Awards delivered on its promise of non-stop entertainment. The show’s signature slimings were as epic as ever, with celebrities and audience members alike getting drenched in Nickelodeon’s famous green slime. Special appearances by skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and other stars added to the excitement, with stunts and surprises keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Musical performances were a major highlight, with KATSEYE making their debut on the Kids Choice Awards stage and Machine Gun Kelly delivering a guitar-slime rock finale that left the audience cheering. Tyla herself joined in for a group encore, showcasing her musical talent and adding a unique flair to the evening.
Why the 2025 Show Stood Out
This year’s Kids Choice Awards stood out for several reasons. The inclusion of more diverse nominees and the historic hosting by Tyla highlighted Nickelodeon’s commitment to celebrating global talent and fostering inclusivity. The event also introduced new categories recognizing achievements in gaming, podcasts, and social media, broadening its appeal to today’s digital-savvy audience.
Interactive elements, such as online voting and real-time fan engagement, gave viewers a sense of ownership and involvement. With 35 categories to vote on, fans had the power to shape the outcome and celebrate their favorite stars.
Key Points at a Glance
- Host: Tyla, making history as the first African host of the Kids Choice Awards
- Date and Location: June 21, 2025, Barker Hangar, Santa Monica
- Broadcast: Live on Nickelodeon, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., TeenNick, MTV2, CMT, and streaming platforms
- Major Winners: Selena Gomez, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Kelce, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place
- Performances: KATSEYE, Machine Gun Kelly, Tyla
- Special Honors: Jack Black received the King of Comedy Award
- Highlights: Iconic slimings, skateboarding stunts, interactive fan voting
- First-Time Nominees: Gracie Abrams, Florence Pugh, Chappell Roan, Cynthia Erivo
- Unique Features: Enhanced diversity, new categories, global reach
Conclusion
The 2025 Kids Choice Awards proved once again why it’s the biggest party of the summer for families and fans of all ages. With a historic host, unforgettable performances, and plenty of slime, the event set a new standard for children’s entertainment. Whether you watched live or caught up on highlights, this year’s Kids Choice Awards was a celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and pure fun.
Want to relive the best moments or see who got slimed? Visit Nickelodeon’s official Kids Choice Awards page for full show recaps, exclusive videos, and behind-the-scenes content. Don’t miss out on the action—join the conversation and share your favorite slime moments online!
