Chelsea Handler’s Critics Choice Opener Blends Wit and Warmth
Chelsea Handler kicked off the 31st Critics Choice Awards with a sharp, heartfelt monologue, setting the tone for a night of memorable wins and lively moments in film and television.
Last night’s Critics Choice Awards saw Chelsea Handler take the reins as host, bringing her trademark blend of sharp humour and genuine sentiment to the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. Handler’s opening remarks, as ever, drew laughter from the crowd, but she also paused to pay tribute to Rob and Michele Reiner, whose recent passing has left a mark on the industry.
Handler addressed the room with a nod to the late director and his wife, reflecting on their warmth and presence.
“Everyone in this room knows that the nicest guy in Hollywood was Rob Reiner. Anyone who ever spent time with Rob Reiner knows that the minute that you met him, he felt like an old friend. When you were in a conversation with him, he was present, he was focused, and he was funny. I think we can all agree that we definitely need more of that, so let's use tonight as a reminder of that decency and as a reminder of everything Rob and Michele represented and fought so hard for.”
The audience, clearly moved, responded with a mix of laughter and quiet reflection.
Handler’s Monologue: Jabs and Jokes
Of course, Handler didn’t let the evening pass without a few pointed barbs. She quipped, “You guys are all going to be spending the next three months together, so whoever wins tonight, get used to seeing them win.” The crowd, a mix of hopefuls and seasoned veterans, took it in good spirits.
The horror film Sinners provided Handler with material for some more risqué jokes, referencing Nicki Minaj and David Zaslav in a way that drew both chuckles and a few raised eyebrows.
“Sinners was a massive blockbuster. Although I haven't been invited into a black person's house since, except Nicki Minaj's, but who wants to go over there? Sinners is the story of brothers who start this really fun place for entertainment and then vampires show up, suck the life out of everybody and burn it all to the ground. Fun fact, the original name of the main vampire was David Zaslav.”
The room’s reaction was mixed, but Handler’s delivery kept the mood buoyant.
Stars and Surprises: The Night’s Big Winners
Handler also took a playful swipe at Leonardo DiCaprio, referencing his penchant for luxury holidays:
“Leo almost didn't make it tonight because he was trapped on a boat in St. Bart's. It was just like the Titanic, but worse because Jeff Bezos was there.”
DiCaprio, ever the good sport, was seen laughing along with the rest.
As for the awards themselves, the ceremony offered a glimpse into what the rest of the season might hold. In television, Adolescence swept up Best Limited Series, along with acting honours for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Supporting Actress. The Pitt claimed Best Drama Series, as well as Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress, while The Studio took home Best Comedy, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor.
Film Highlights and Notable Moments
On the film side, One Battle After Another emerged as a frontrunner, securing Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Picture. Sinners, the horror entry that fuelled Handler’s jokes, picked up accolades for Best Original Screenplay, Best Young Actor/Actress, Best Casting and Ensemble, and Best Score.
Perhaps the most unexpected moment came when Amy Madigan was named Best Supporting Actress for her role in Weapons, edging out favourites such as Ariana Grande for Wicked: For Good and Wunmi Mosaku for Sinners. The room buzzed with surprise, a reminder that even in a night of predictions, there’s always room for the unexpected.