Robert Irwin steps up as the new host for the Logie Awards, marking a major shift as the ceremony ditches traditional television for YouTube after 70 years on air.
Historic Move from TV to Streaming
The iconic event ends its long-standing partnership with TV Week following the decision by Seven Network owners, Southern Cross Media, not to renew the broadcasting agreement. YouTube now takes center stage, planning to livestream the red carpet arrivals, nominations announcements, behind-the-scenes footage, nominee interviews, and podcasts.
Chris Ledlin, head of YouTube Strategy & Partnerships, expressed enthusiasm: “YouTube is thrilled to bring the Logie Awards to a new audience, led by talented host Robert Irwin.” The platform’s dedicated Logies channel will broadcast the event live to Australian TV fans worldwide this August.
Gen Z Makeover Targets Influencers
The revamped Logies introduce fresh elements to draw in younger viewers, including a new category: the Mr. Beast Award for Most Popular YouTube Creator. This opens doors for social media influencers, reversing past exclusions of reality stars and online personalities. Content creators can even livestream the red carpet directly from their phones.
Irwin, fresh off his success on Dancing With The Stars US, replaces comedian Sam Pang as host. Organizers hope these changes, paired with Irwin’s appeal, will engage Gen Z audiences effectively. Lynne McGranger took home the 2025 Gold Logie.
Social Media Backlash
Reactions on X highlight skepticism about the ceremony’s relevance. One user posted: “No better confirmation that free-to-air TV is dying than the Logies—a mix of yesterday’s celebrities and nobodies talking about themselves.”
Another remarked: “It’s quaint how they still have the Logies—a dying medium celebrating mediocrity.” Comments continued: “Dear Aussie media, no one gives a flying f**k about the Logies, regards, the Australian public.”
Users questioned: “Are the Logies even relevant anymore?” and added: “Geez the Logies have become so irrelevant.” One stated: “In fairness, the Logies are an embarrassment and have been for at least 30 years.” Another criticized: “Did you see the nominees this year? Not a shred of talent.” A final post noted: “Sometimes I get mad about streaming costs, but then I remember I don’t endure broadcasts like the Logies.”
Declining Ratings and Future Outlook
Ratings have fallen sharply, with a 20 percent drop in digital viewership since Seven reclaimed broadcast rights in 2023 after 28 years with Nine. Insiders previously warned that the event might skip TV altogether in 2026, calling it “not viable anymore—no one’s watching, and organizers seek an exit.”
Seven anticipated reclaiming a national treasure but faced an expensive nostalgia act instead, sources confirm.
