International supermodel Tyra Banks was a surprise and delightful presenter at the 2025 ARIA Awards in Sydney, where she shared a uniquely Australian highlight from the prestigious music event.
A Supermodel's Sydney Surprise
Taking the stage to announce the winner for Best Pop Release, Banks immediately charmed the audience by expressing her joy at living in beautiful Sydney. The business owner, who relocated to Australia to open her SMiZE & DREAM ice-cream store, confessed her mood had been soured earlier after some of her ice cream melted. However, the warmth of the Australian crowd quickly turned her evening around.
The night's pinnacle for the American icon, however, was a quintessentially Australian encounter. I met the Wiggles and I'm so excited, Banks revealed from the stage, showcasing her genuine enthusiasm for meeting the beloved children's entertainers.
From Music Legends to an ARIA Winner
Before announcing the nominees, Banks established her pop music credentials, reminding the audience of her appearances in iconic music videos for legends like George Michael, Michael Jackson, and Tina Turner.
The honour of the Best Pop Release award went to Thelma Plum for her song I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back. An overwhelmed Plum accepted the award, stating, I can't believe Tyra Banks just gave me an ARIA. This feels like a fever dream. The artist, who has been in the industry since she was 17, expressed her shock and gratitude at the recognition.
Wiggles Take the Stage
The Wiggles' presence was felt beyond their meeting with Banks. John Pearce, the new purple Wiggle, took on presenting duties earlier in the night, awarding the Best Blues and Roots Album to The Teskey Brothers.
His co-presenter, New Zealand singer Kaylee Bell, joked about seeing him without his signature purple skivvy, quipping it was giving me fruit salad but no yummy yummy. Pearce, often dubbed the hot Wiggle, responded with a cheeky retort aimed at the parents in the audience: I guess there will be a few yummy mummies that would agree with you.
The 2025 ARIAs successfully blended international star power with homegrown talent, creating memorable moments that celebrated the vibrant Australian music scene.
