Nickelodeon announces hosts and nominees for 2019 Kids’ Choice Awards

Nickelodeon announced on Wednesday the host and nominees for the 2019 Kids’ Choice Awards (KCAs) along with a first-time Nickelodeon KCA nomination livestream event across its YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter handles and channels.

The KCAs will air on Nickelodeon (DStv 305) and Nick Toons (DStv 308) on March 24.

Alex Okosi, executive vice-president and managing director of Viacom International Media Networks Africa, said: “The Nickelodeon brand in Africa is all about empowering children on the continent and Nickelodeon KCA provides a platform for them to celebrate their favourite stars.

“Congratulations to all the nominees that are representing our continent at this global event which unites children with fun, slime and laughter.”

The five effervescent stars that make up the South African nominees for the only live event where kids’ votes count are AKA, Nomzamo Mbatha, Siya Kolisi, Kagiso Rabada and Somizi. They feature in the Favourite SA Star category.

Siya Kolisi during the South African national rugby team captain’s media conference in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images)

In the Favourite African Star category, the list includes IK Osakioduwa and Adesua Etomi-Wellington (Nigeria), Sauti Sol (Kenya) and Stone Bwoy (Ghana).

Globally, Nigerian musician Davido is the Africa nominee in the Favourite Global Music Star award and there’s also David Guetta and Taylor Swift.

Acclaimed South African actress and activist Nomzamo Mbatha, who attended the media announcement in Johannesburg, said: “To be seen and voted for as one of the top five by the kids of South Africa, just melts my heart as it’s a validation of what I do.”

Prominent hip-hop artist AKA, who was also at the press conference with his daughter said: “Everyone who knows me will tell you, I am a big kid at heart. So to get a nod from the kids is super special.”

Music mogul DJ Khaled will be the KCAs host. He will bring his music, signature catchphrases and larger-than-life personality to the awards stage.

Nomzamo Mbatha. Picture: Luminance Online Instagram

Children around the world will have a front-row seat to the next big things in kid culture from the hottest upcoming movies, music, gaming and rising talent, while continuing to celebrate their favourites from the past year.

DJ Khaled is also nominated in three categories.

Leading with the most nominations are: Avengers: Infinity War, with 10; Black Panther (five); Cardi B and Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (four).

First-time nominees include Jason Momoa, Emilia Clarke, James Corden, Noah Centineo, Bebe Rexha, Tyra Banks and Riverdale.

This year also introduces new categories: Favourite TV Host, Favourite TV Judges, Favourite Superhero and Favourite Gamer.

Fans can cast their votes on KCA2019.com

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