Move over world, Tyla is taking over, unapologetically, from burning up global charts with her sultry amapiano flair to stepping into the limelight as the host of the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, the GRAMMY® Award-winning superstar is cementing herself as a generational talent with both staying power and that elusive sparkle.
All Eyes on Tyla: Host of the 2025 Nickelodeon KCAs
If you grew up watching stars get slimed and dancing in front of your TV during the Kids’ Choice Awards, get ready for a blast of nostalgia meets new era. On Saturday, June 21, Tyla will take center stage at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, leading what Nickelodeon promises to be “the biggest party of the summer.”
She’ll be juggling the glittery chaos of celebrity appearances, wild stunts, and of course, those iconic slime showers—all while looking fabulous and delivering big energy.
It’s a full-circle moment for a pop icon who not long ago was performing in intimate Jozi clubs and now finds herself commanding a global audience of millions across Nickelodeon, TeenNick, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., MTV2, and CMT.
Global Glamour, South African Swagger
Tyla’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. With her breakout hit “Water” (still a fan-favorite on TikTok) and a GRAMMY now under her belt, she’s taken South African sounds and sprinkled them across international airwaves. Her music is a defiant mix of silky vocals, bold production, and Afro-glam style that feels unmistakably her.
Just when you thought she couldn’t do more, Tyla is also joining the star-studded cast of the upcoming Smurfs movie, set to hit cinemas this July. Sharing a soundtrack with none other than Rihanna, Cardi B, DJ Khaled, and Marshmello, she’s adding her musical magic to one of 2025’s most anticipated animated releases.
And here’s a gem: Rihanna has recorded a new song titled “Friend of Mine,” her first since Lift Me Up (from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), and it features in the Smurfs soundtrack alongside Tyla.
“Ooh, I think the word is déjà-vu/You’re looking like a friend of mine,” Rihanna sings in the teaser trailer, released on May 14 by Paramount Pictures.
The film also boasts an exciting voice cast including James Corden, Nick Offerman, Sandra Oh, Kurt Russell, and Xolo Maridueña. Plus, rumor has it Marshmello will voice a surprise character.
The Tyla Era Has Arrived
Between hosting Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards, collaborating with icons, and making waves on the big screen, Tyla’s evolution is dazzling to watch. She represents more than just the future of music—she’s a symbol of global youth culture, African excellence, and unstoppable feminine power.
So whether you’re tuning in for the slime, the songs, or the Smurf drama, 2025 is officially the Year of Tyla.
Watch the KCAs: KidsChoiceAwards.com
Stream Tyla’s Music: Spotify | Apple Music
Watch the Smurfs Trailer: YouTube
