Rebel Wilson Joins The Kooks for Surprise Reading Festival Performance

At the 2025 Reading Festival, British indie band The Kooks surprised fans by inviting Australian actress Rebel Wilson on stage to perform Coolio's 1995 hit "Gangsta's Paradise." Frontman Luke Pritchard introduced Wilson under the playful alter ego "Tazzie Young," explaining that she contacted the band wanting to watch their set and was invited to join them. Although the band did not know the song, Wilson knew all the lyrics, leading to a memorable collaboration that energized the crowd and became a festival highlight. The Kooks, who released their seventh album "Never/Know" earlier this year, continue to connect with new audiences nearly two decades after their debut. Wilson’s appearance adds an unexpected twist to her varied career, which includes comedy blockbusters and directorial ventures. The performance was well-received, with Wilson ending the set by spraying champagne over the crowd, showcasing the fun and spontaneous spirit of the festival.