If you have a child under the age of ten, you’re likely familiar with Emma as the Yellow Wiggle. Since taking over from original Wiggle Greg Page in 2013, Emma Richards has transformed the Australian supergroup, motivating countless young girls along the way. After nine years in the spotlight, Emma is passing the baton to a new star — Talia Brooks. Talia is making waves in her own right. Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with both Talia and Emma over Zoom, and it was exciting to hear their thoughts on this significant transition.
As the second female Wiggle, Talia holds the distinction of being the first Black woman to step into this iconic role within The Wiggles. At just 15 years old, she’s already an award-winning dancer, representing Australia at the World Latin Dance Championships and securing eleven Australian titles alongside four World titles in Latin and Commercial Dance. Talia is also the reigning Australian and World Youth Ladies Salsa and Urban Latin Champion.
My son, who is now eight, has been a fan of The Wiggles since he was a toddler. Emma being the Yellow Wiggle is all he’s ever known. I’ve taken him to three Wiggles concerts — when he was two, four, and five. Each show is a delightful experience for both kids and their parents. The impact Emma has made on Wiggles fans during her time with the group is remarkable. At concerts, it’s common to see half the audience dressed in yellow and black, her signature style, complete with bows that could rival JoJo Siwa.
“It’s really bittersweet,” Emma shared when discussing her feelings about the change. “On one hand, I feel sad for the Wiggly fans who have grown up with this generation of The Wiggles over the last decade. But on the other hand, I’m excited to move forward with my experiences and knowledge from the past decade and ready to start a new chapter.”
Fans of all ages enjoy dressing up like Emma for the shows, and she receives the most fan mail, which is collected during the performances. While many boys adore her, the impact she’s had on young girls is undeniable. Talia is among those inspired by Emma. As a child, she danced around her home to The Wiggles, and her admiration for Emma dates back to before Emma’s time with the group.
“Emma has been an inspiration to me and so many others,” Talia expressed. “They’re definitely big shoes to fill, but I’m very excited for this opportunity.”
Talia joined The Wiggles crew in 2020, following the push for greater diversity in entertainment after the events of June 2020. The Wiggles sought to incorporate performers of color into their lineup, and Talia made her debut in the “We’re All Fruit Salad” video and became part of “Fruit Salad TV.” When Emma decided to pursue new interests, Talia was the natural choice to succeed her, and both women learned about the transition simultaneously!
“As The Wiggles evolve and look toward the future, we’re thrilled to welcome Talia into the yellow skivvy,” said Blue Wiggle and founding member Anthony Feld. “Parents and children everywhere will embrace her infectious energy and warmth, just as we have.”
As a Black mother, witnessing The Wiggles embrace diversity is truly heartening. Many may not realize the vibrant communities of color in Australia. Talia, of Ethiopian descent, recognizes the significance of her role. “I’ve received messages saying ‘this kid looks like me! I can be like her!’ and that’s exactly what I hoped for,” she said.
Representation is a hot topic in discussions about children’s media. The Wiggles, as a leading musical group for toddlers and preschoolers, understand their potential impact on young audiences. By introducing Talia, they’re providing a new role model for young girls, especially Black girls, who will have the opportunity to see someone who looks like them on screen. This representation may not resonate immediately with young viewers, but its significance will certainly grow with them. Parents recognize the importance now.
“For representation, being the first person of color really means a lot. I’ve been contacted by parents whose little Black girls are excited to embrace their natural hair. It means the world,” Talia shared.
As for Emma, she’s unsure of her next steps after passing the yellow skivvy at the end of the year. However, she has plans, including completing her Ph.D. and continuing to educate Australians about Auslan, the nation’s sign language. Regardless of her future endeavors, she feels confident that the role is in capable hands.
“I’ve been in Talia’s position before, when the yellow costume was handed over to me from Greg,” Emma reflected. “This is a new chapter for all of us. I’m so thrilled to introduce Talia to everyone — we’ve had the pleasure of working with her for a couple of years. What a beautiful spirit and human to bring to the stage and screen. We’re so lucky!”
Talia will officially step into the role of Yellow Wiggle next year when The Wiggles embark on their tour, with hopes of returning to North America in 2022!
For more insights on this exciting transition, check out other posts like this one.
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