UPDATE: Beloved comedian Magda Szubanski received a standing ovation during her induction into the Logies Hall of Fame on July 15, 2023, as she delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech via video link. Szubanski, who recently disclosed her diagnosis of stage four blood cancer, captivated audiences with humor and emotion despite being unable to attend the ceremony in person.
In her pre-recorded speech, Szubanski showcased her signature wit, joking, “I am getting this because of 40 years of hard work. Lobbying, bribing, threatening, whatever it took.” She concluded with a bold reveal, removing her beanie to display her shaved head, humorously stating she had her “hair done specifically so it would match” her Gold Logie.
The night also featured an emotional acceptance by tennis star Jelena Dokic, who won the Logie for Best Factual or Documentary Program for Unbreakable: The Jelena Dokic Story. Her documentary, based on her book, highlights her journey from refugee to tennis champion while addressing her traumatic past. Dokic emphasized, “This is not about winning. This is about a win for victims and survivors, especially of domestic violence and mental health.”
Journalist Ally Langdon beamed as she accepted the inaugural Ray Martin Award for Most Popular News or Public Affairs Presenter. Langdon, the host of Nine’s A Current Affair, expressed gratitude to Martin for his dedication to journalism, stating, “I’ve never seen journalism more under siege than it is today.”
The awards ceremony also recognized Travel Guides for Best Lifestyle Program and LEGO Masters for Best Competition Reality Program. New Zealand comedian Guy Montgomery earned the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent, adding to the night’s celebrations.
The evening kicked off with a powerhouse performance by rocker Jimmy Barnes, who electrified the crowd with his hit “Working Class Man.” Returning host Sam Pang, in his third consecutive year, noted the resilience of the television industry, stating, “It’s inspiring that with the world in as much turmoil as it is right now, we as an industry have not wavered.”
Seven TV personalities are in contention for the coveted Gold Logie, including last year’s winner Sonia Kruger, Julia Morris, Lisa Millar, and Hamish Blake. Female nominees dominated the category, with Lynne McGranger from Home and Away considered a frontrunner.
The 65th Logie Awards are being broadcast live on the Seven Network, generating significant buzz as viewers tune in to witness the celebrations of Australian television. With the event showcasing both triumphs and tribulations, it resonates deeply with audiences across the nation.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the latest highlights from the Logies.
