BREAKING: The 65th Logie Awards just kicked off in Sydney with a high-energy performance from Jimmy Barnes, electrifying the star-studded audience. The iconic rocker fired up the crowd with his hit “Working Class Man,” setting the tone for a night filled with humor and celebration of Australian television.
Returning host Sam Pang opened the ceremony, now in its third consecutive year under his stewardship. “It’s inspiring that with the world in as much turmoil as it is right now, we have not wavered in our commitment to honor ourselves,” Pang declared, immediately roasting nominees for the coveted Gold Logie.
The nominees include top talents like Sonia Kruger, Karl Stefanovic, and Kerri-Anne Kennerley. Pang humorously highlighted Larry Emdur, the previous Gold Logie winner, for not making the nominee list this year. The night began strong with The Voice winning the first award for Best Entertainment Program.
The competition for the Gold Logie is fierce this year, with nominees such as Julia Morris, Lisa Millar, and two-time winner Hamish Blake. Pang couldn’t resist teasing Blake about the potential awkwardness of his acceptance speech, should he win. Blake himself admitted he was “hoping not to win” while presenting the award for Best Children’s Program, humorously acknowledging that his wife shook her head when asked if she voted for him.
On the red carpet, excitement was palpable as nominees, including Poh Ling Yeow and Lynne McGranger, mingled and posed for photographs. McGranger is a strong contender for the Gold Logie, marking a significant year after stepping away from her long-standing role in Home and Away.
The ceremony also featured the beloved characters Bandit and Chilli from the hit children’s show Bluey, which claimed the award for Best Children’s Program early in the night.
In a poignant moment, the awards will honor Magda Szubanski with an induction into the Logies Hall of Fame, recognizing her nearly 40 years in the industry. This comes shortly after she revealed her battle with stage four blood cancer.
Tonight’s ceremony introduces the inaugural Ray Martin Award for Most Popular News or Public Affairs Reporter, with nominees including Ally Langdon, Tara Brown, and David Speers.
As the night continues, all eyes are on the limited Netflix series Apple Cider Vinegar, which has received an impressive eight nominations, including key acting categories.
The 2023 Logie Awards are currently being broadcast on the Seven Network, with millions tuned in to celebrate the best in Australian television. Stay tuned for live updates on winners and highlights throughout the night.
