Santa Monica was buzzing with signature neon green anticipation as the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards rolled out the orange carpet at the Barker Hangar on June 21. Hosted for the first time by global music sensation Tyla, the annual slime-filled extravaganza celebrated fan favorites across film, television, music, and more, all decided by kids’ votes.
The event promised a night packed with energetic performances, daredevil skateboard stunts, the coveted orange blimp trophies, and, of course, the legendary deluge of green slime – rumored to be a surprisingly tasty concoction of vanilla pudding, apple sauce, green food coloring, and a hint of oatmeal, with a total of 5,000 gallons prepped for the night!
Nominees and Honorees Shine Bright
Competition for the iconic blimps was fierce. Leading the pack with four nominations each were powerhouse names like Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Kendrick Lamar. Hot on their heels with three nods were stars such as Jack Black, Dwayne Johnson, Selena Gomez, and Jelly Roll.
The night also welcomed many first-time nominees, including rising talents like Gracie Abrams, Cynthia Erivo, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey, all eagerly awaiting their potential first encounter with the famous Nickelodeon sludge.
A special moment celebrated the King of Comedy. Following Adam Sandler being named the first comedian to receive this honor in 2023, the beloved Minecraft Movie star became the second overall recipient of the prestigious King of Comedy Award in 2025. Recognized for his extensive career across film, TV, and music, Sandler’s long history with the show includes hosting duties in 2006, 2008, and 2011, alongside already owning two blimps for his voice roles as Bowser in The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Po in Kung Fu Panda.
Music fans were treated to an anticipated performance by KATSEYE, the Los Angeles-based girl group whose journey was documented in the 2024 Netflix docuseries Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE.
The Orange Carpet Extravaganza
Before the show officially kicked off, stars brought their brightest and most colorful fashion statements to the orange carpet. The style choices often paid playful tribute to the event’s signature color palette, sometimes even nodding directly to the neon green slime itself.
Notable arrivals and standout looks included:
Host Tyla, who graced the carpet alongside her stylist, Law Roach.
Child star Maia Kealoha (Lilo & Stitch live-action) made waves with a vibrant, personality-filled outfit described as impossible to miss and just plain fun.
YouTuber Markell Washington incorporated bright green shoulder pads into his dapper brown suit, a clear nod to the slime.
Actress Cesily Collette Taylor, known for Wicked, arrived in an all-green ensemble, fully embracing the slime theme.
Magician Sean Sotaridona (My Weird School) arrived ready with planned tricks.
Actors Israel Johnson (Bunk’d), Sebastian Hansen (A Minecraft Movie), and Jacob Rodriguez (Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado) were also seen walking the carpet.
Legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk made an appearance.
Food reviewer Keith Lee stopped to talk about his favorite Detroit restaurants.
Good Burger alum Kel Mitchell attended the event.
WWE star Brie Garcia, nominated for “Favorite Podcast” with her sister Nikki, arrived with her daughter Birdie, who openly hoped her mom would get slimed.
Performer Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) walked the carpet with his daughter Casie Baker. Casie looked grown-up and gorgeous in a lilac dress with silver sandals, while MGK kept it simple in all black.
Veteran actor Terry Crews arrived in a look described as simple, casual, but undeniably cool.
Music star Ice Spice turned heads, noted for looking gorgeous.
Social media personality Fabiola Baglieri looked beautiful in a flowy brown dress.
YouTuber Kouvr Annon attended with musician Alex Warren, opting for a simple white dress styled with glamorous updos.
Filmmaker Cole Walliser stood out in a stylish black and white houndstooth jacket with a purple pocket square.
YouTuber Liv Pearsall looked pretty in pink, arriving alongside Joe Simon.
Actor Samantha Lorraine (Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado) stunned in a playful cobalt blue bodycon dress.
Teen YouTuber Harper Zilmer chose an emerald green dress that complemented her red hair, notably pairing it with sneakers, emphasizing comfort for the long night.
Model and influencer Haley Kalil showcased creativity in an elegant white dress featuring a distinct green half-cape design – another stylish acknowledgment of the slime.
As the orange carpet closed, anticipation built for the main show, where more stars, performances, and, inevitably, plenty of slime awaited. The 2025 Kids’ Choice Awards once again delivered a memorable night celebrating kids’ favorites in truly messy, colorful style.
