Kids' Choice Awards Recap: Big Wins, Fun Moments, and Surprise Honors
Saturday night in Santa Monica was all about the kids — and their favorite stars! The annual Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards brought together a buzzing crowd, celebrating the coolest in movies, TV, music, and more. Hosted by the rising star Tyla, the event was packed with energy, laughs, and some seriously well-deserved trophies.
Movie Magic: Ariana Grande and Wicked Take Center Stage
The movie category was a highlight, with Wicked clinching the big prize for Favorite Movie. Fans showed their love for the magical tale that brought a fresh twist to a classic story. But the real crowd-pleaser was Ariana Grande, who snagged the award for Favorite Movie Actress for her role in Wicked. It was a huge moment for Ariana, who’s been dazzling audiences on stage and screen alike.
Not to be outdone, Jack Black grabbed the Favorite Movie Actor trophy for his work in Minecraft. Known for his humor and charm, Jack brought his signature energy to the awards, reminding everyone why he’s such a fan favorite.
TV Triumphs: The Thundermans, Cobra Kai, and XO, Kitty Shine
Turning to the small screen, the kids made it clear: The Thundermans is the show to watch. It won Favorite Kids TV Show, and its stars didn’t go home empty-handed. Jack Griffo and Kira Kosarin were voted Favorite Male and Favorite Female TV Stars (Kids), making it a triple win for the series.
Meanwhile, fans of family-friendly action cheered on Cobra Kai. The show’s stars, Xolo Maridueña and Peyton List, took home the prizes for Favorite Male and Favorite Female TV Stars (Family). It’s clear the Cobra Kai cast has struck a chord with viewers across generations, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling.
In another major TV win, XO, Kitty was named Favorite Family TV Show, earning high praise for its heartfelt and humorous take on teenage life. It’s a feel-good winner that’s been capturing hearts since it hit the screen.
Reality TV fans had their pick too — America’s Got Talent won Favorite Reality TV Show, showcasing how the crowd loves a good talent competition packed with surprise acts and inspiring stories.
And of course, no kids’ awards show would be complete without cartoons. SpongeBob SquarePants once again proved its legendary status by winning Favorite Cartoon. After all these years, the underwater antics of SpongeBob and friends still reign supreme.
Music Stars Steal the Show
Music was a major highlight at the Kids’ Choice Awards, with the coolest artists taking home the night’s top honors. SZA was voted Favorite Female Music Artist, thanks to her unique style and powerhouse vocals that have captivated fans everywhere.
On the male side, Bruno Mars scored the Favorite Male Music Artist award, keeping his streak of hits and feel-good tunes alive. His music’s infectious energy makes it easy to see why he remains a favorite.
But it wasn’t just solo acts winning big. K-pop sensation Stray Kids took home the trophy for Favorite Music Group, proving that their global fanbase is strong and loyal. The group’s dynamic performances and catchy songs have earned them a spot in the hearts of many young listeners.
Special Honors: King of Comedy and ICON Awards
Beyond the competitive categories, the event also paid tribute to some legendary performers. Jack Black was honored with the King of Comedy Life Achievement Award — a nod to his decades of making audiences laugh with his unique brand of humor and unforgettable roles.
In a glamorous moment, Rihanna received the ICON Silver Blimp Award, celebrating her incredible influence across music, fashion, and pop culture. Rihanna’s trailblazing career and unstoppable creativity make her a true icon in every sense of the word.
Why the Kids’ Choice Awards Matter
What makes the Kids’ Choice Awards special isn’t just the trophies or the celebrity appearances — it’s the way the event puts the spotlight on the artists and shows that genuinely resonate with kids and families. From movies and TV to music and reality shows, the winners reflect the tastes of a generation that values creativity, fun, and heart.
The ceremony itself is a lively celebration filled with slime, surprises, and moments that keep fans talking long after the night is over. Plus, with a young, dynamic host like Tyla leading the charge, the energy was fresh and electric.
Quick Recap: Who Took Home What?
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Favorite Movie: Wicked
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Favorite Movie Actress: Ariana Grande (Wicked)
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Favorite Movie Actor: Jack Black (Minecraft)
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Favorite Kids TV Show: The Thundermans
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Favorite Male TV Star (Kids): Jack Griffo (The Thundermans)
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Favorite Female TV Star (Kids): Kira Kosarin (The Thundermans)
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Favorite Male TV Star (Family): Xolo Maridueña (Cobra Kai)
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Favorite Female TV Star (Family): Peyton List (Cobra Kai)
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Favorite Family TV Show: XO, Kitty
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Favorite Reality TV Show: America’s Got Talent
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Favorite Cartoon: SpongeBob SquarePants
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Favorite Female Music Artist: SZA
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Favorite Male Music Artist: Bruno Mars
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Favorite Music Group: Stray Kids
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King of Comedy Life Achievement Award: Jack Black
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ICON Silver Blimp Award: Rihanna
Fun Highlights and Moments
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Tyla’s hosting skills brought fresh vibes to the stage, mixing humor and heartfelt shoutouts.
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Jack Black’s comedy award speech was full of laughs and a little slime surprise.
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Rihanna’s ICON award acceptance was both classy and inspiring, reminding everyone why she’s a cultural powerhouse.
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The night had the perfect mix of nostalgia (Cobra Kai), fresh talent (XO, Kitty), and music that makes you want to dance (Bruno Mars and Stray Kids).
Overall, the Kids’ Choice Awards Saturday night was a celebration of entertainment that really connects with young audiences. From blockbuster movies to chart-topping music stars and TV shows that families watch together, the event highlighted the best of what’s current and cool.
Kids got to cheer for their favorites, and stars got to shine in a space made just for them — all while having a ton of fun.
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