During Sam Pang’s acceptance speech for the Gold Logie, Sharon Strzelecki delivered an entertaining skit, adding a memorable touch to the evening.
Pang was honored with the prestigious Gold Logie at the 66th TV Week Logie Awards, marking a significant achievement in his career. Having served as the host for the awards show for three consecutive years, he expressed his astonishment at finding himself on television.
“I grew up enjoying television beside my parents,” Pang remarked, humorously noting that they never allowed him on the couch. “In this country, when you watch television, you never imagine you’ll be a part of it. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful.”
The comedian is well-known for his appearances on programs such as Have You Been Paying Attention, The Front Bar, Ground Up on ABC, and his own show, Sam Pang Tonight, which is set to return to Network 10 this year.
Pang made history by becoming the second person of color to receive the Gold Logie, following Waleed Aly, who won the honor in 2016. The award was presented to him by Magda Szubanski, who appeared in character as Sharon Strzelecki from the beloved Australian series Kath & Kim, which has been voted as the nation’s favorite program.
Last year, Szubanski participated via video link after publicly disclosing her stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
Robert Irwin, who hosted the event, opened with a lively monologue showcasing his newfound dance skills from his recent victory on Dancing with the Stars in the U.S., which left him slightly breathless at the start of his speech.
At just 22 years old, Irwin was noted as the youngest host in the ceremony’s history, a point that was highlighted throughout the night. “I grew up watching this event,” he shared with the audience. “My mum would let me stay up late, and I’d be glued to the TV, thinking how funny Sam Pang is.”
Irwin not only celebrated Pang but also humorously jabbed at other celebrities. “Unfortunately, Karl Stefanovic didn’t RSVP tonight, which means we didn’t need as many bartenders,” he quipped. “We’ve saved him a seat, just over there on the far right.” He also poked fun at Dave Hughes, suggesting a new show titled, “No, Seriously Hughesy, We Have a Problem.”
Irwin took home the Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter for his role in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, which was saved by Channel 7 after previously being dropped by Network 10. He later entertained the audience by introducing various reptiles, including a python that he draped around comedian Luke McGregor’s shoulders.
Andrew Denton received accolades for his Hall of Fame induction, celebrated by Amanda Keller. His speech was widely praised on social media, with many calling it “world class.” Denton, known for his work on shows like Enough Rope, has dedicated much of his career to nurturing new talent.
Reflecting on his past, Denton humorously noted how meeting his wife, journalist Jennifer Byrne, transformed his life from a “geeky ABC type” to a part of the vibrant Channel Nine scene. He encouraged attendees to “back yourself” and to support others in their endeavors, emphasizing the joy of fostering success without an agenda.
In a poignant moment, the late Sam Neill, who passed away last month at the age of 78, was posthumously awarded Best Lead Actor in a Drama for his role in The Twelve: Cape Rock Killer. Actress Heather Mitchell accepted the award on his behalf, acknowledging how much the series meant to him.
Neill was also honored during the In Memoriam segment, which paid tribute to other cherished personalities who have recently passed away, including Johnny Young and Derryn Hinch.
Deborah Mailman, another Hall of Fame inductee, expressed her delight when her former drama teacher Denise Murphy appeared on screen to congratulate her. Mailman dedicated her award to her parents, who supported her passion for acting. She made history as the first Indigenous person to receive this honor, expressing immense pride in the moment.
The ABC network had a successful night, securing eight awards, including Best Factual or Documentary Program for The Assembly. Lila McGuire from Goolagong was recognized with the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent, and the program also won Best Miniseries or Telemovie. Muster Dogs claimed victory once again for Best Structured Reality Program.
