Best and worst moments from the 2025 AACTA Awards
The 2025 AACTA Awards had everything — heartwarming wins, unexpected onstage moments, and even a few red carpet mishaps.
Opinion
Don't miss out on the headlines from Opinion. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The 2025 AACTA Awards on the Gold Coast had everything — heartwarming wins, unexpected onstage moments, and even a few red carpet mishaps. While some stars stole the show, others left attendees scratching their heads. Here are the biggest highlights (and lowlights) of the night.
BEST MOMENTS
Robbie Williams’ red carpet pashing spree
Robbie Williams was really feeling the love at the AACTAs, kicking off his red carpet stroll with an unexpected smooch on none other than Rove McManus.
Not stopping there, the British rocker then planted a kiss on Daily Telegraph journalist Jonathon Moran — leaving plenty of envious reporters in his wake.
His spontaneous PDA set the tone for what would be one of the most talked-about red carpet moments of the night.
Robbie Williams’ show-stopping ‘Angels’ performance
If his red carpet antics weren’t enough, Williams delivered one of the most memorable performances in AACTA history with a stirring rendition of Angels.
Halfway through the song, emotional snippets from his biopic Better Man played on the big screen, adding extra weight to the performance.
But the highlight? A surprise sing-off with Heartbreak High star Chloe Hayden, culminating in a full standing ovation from the crowd.
Gracie Otto’s heartfelt fashion tribute
Gracie Otto made an emotional statement on the red carpet, wearing a stunning Zimmermann gown featuring artwork by her father, legendary actor Barry Otto.
The Otto by Otto director, who was nominated on the night, incorporated the design as a tribute to her father and his battle with dementia, adding a personal and sentimental touch to an already significant night.
WORST MOMENTS
Henry Cavill “flying” past media
In a move that left many journalists unimpressed, British actor Henry Cavill — best known as Superman — bypassed the media entirely upon arrival, heading straight into the venue despite repeated attempts to grab his attention.
The humidity struggle
For those not accustomed to Queensland’s weather, the Gold Coast humidity proved to be an unexpected challenge. Morning rain only made conditions worse, leaving red carpet attendees battling frizz, makeup meltdowns, and general discomfort.
Many guests were overheard commenting on the sticky conditions, with some even escaping inside as quickly as possible to avoid the heat.
Did Asher Yasbincek forget her pants?
Heartbreak High star Asher Yasbincek turned heads on the red carpet — but not for the reason she may have hoped. Opting for an edgy look, the actor sported a leather jacket up top, but her bottom half had many questioning whether she had forgotten her pants altogether.
Instead of trousers or a skirt, Yasbincek rocked a simple underwear-style brief, prompting plenty of double-takes and debate over whether the bold look was a fashion hit or miss.
Russell Crowe skipping the red carpet
As AACTA President and the official host of the awards, many expected Russell Crowe to make a grand entrance.
However, much to the disappointment of photographers and reporters, Crowe opted to skip the red carpet altogether.
His absence left a noticeable gap in the pre-show buzz, with many left wondering why the industry heavyweight chose not to partake in the usual star-studded arrivals.
Originally published as Best and worst moments from the 2025 AACTA Awards
‘Something must give – let’s stop our insane obsession with renewable energy’
Trim the fat, cancel the Olympics or blame both sides of politics. What’s the fix to Queensland’s finances? HAVE YOUR SAY
‘To the naysayers on Trump’s Gaza idea, something has to be done differently’
Donald Trump’s bold Gaza proposal has divided opinion, with some claiming anything different is worth a go. Others, however, insist it isn’t possible. HAVE YOUR SAY