The 5 Best Moments From the 2026 Critics Choice Awards
After a whirlwind of dazzling performances, star‑filled red carpet, and unforgettable speeches, the 2026 Critics Choice Awards delivered a handful of moments that will echo in our memories and on social media for years to come. From a masterful opening monologue to heartfelt tributes, the ceremony was a perfect blend of humor, emotion, and pop‑culture swagger. Below, we break down the five standout moments that stole the show.
1. Chelsea Handler’s Opening Monologue
When the hosts stepped onto the stage, it was clear that Chelsea Handler had the crowd in her grip from the very first line. Her opening monologue was a blend of sharp wit and personal insight, with a nod to both classic and contemporary Hollywood.
- Humor & Timing: Handler opened with a playful jab at David Zaslav and Adam Sandler, setting the tone for the night.
- Personal Touch: A reference to “the only person who has invited me is Nicki Minaj” showcased her knack for connecting with the audience.
- Audience Engagement: Her jokes landed on time, making the crowd laugh and setting a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere.
- Key Quote: “I haven’t been invited to a Black person’s house since Sinners… The only person who has invited me is Nicki Minaj, but who wants to go over there?”
2. Tribute to Rob Reiner
Beyond the laughter, Chelsea paid heartfelt tribute to the late director Rob Reiner and his wife, film producer Michele Singer Reiner. The tribute added depth to the ceremony and connected the audience to the legacy of Reiner’s work.
- Emotional Depth: Handler described Reiner as “the nicest guy in Hollywood,” capturing his personality and influence.
- Storytelling: She highlighted Reiner’s ability to make conversation feel like a reunion.
- Legacy Mention: Handler’s tribute ensured that the Reiners’ legacy would be remembered throughout the awards season.
- Audience Reaction: The crowd responded with warm applause and several cheers, reinforcing the emotional resonance of the moment.
3. Michael B. Jordan & Donna’s Red Carpet Date
One of the most memorable moments on the red carpet was Michael B. Jordan arriving with his mother, Donna, to celebrate his well‑deserved win for “Sinners.” The duo’s dynamic presence added a personal touch to the event.
- Red Carpet Styling: Jordan and Donna were noted for their coordinated looks, blending classic Hollywood glam with modern flair.
- Media Coverage: The pair received significant media attention, with several bloggers noting the “mom-date” as a highlight of the night.
- Audience Appeal: Fans praised the duo’s chemistry, making the moment relatable and endearing.
- Post‑Award Thank‑You: Jordan thanked his partner for her support: “Thank you for our foundation. I love you.”
4. Jimmy Kimmel’s Late‑Night Acceptance Speech
In a surprising twist, Jimmy Kimmel stepped onto the stage to accept his award for best talk show, bringing a touch of late‑night humor to the ceremony. His acceptance speech was a playful nod to the Oval Office and a nod to his fellow hosts.
- Humorous References: Kimmel thanked President Donald Jennifer Trump for his support, adding a playful political reference.
- Stage Presence: Kimmel’s energetic delivery kept the crowd engaged.
- Comedic Timing: He delivered a genuinely funny bit from Marcello Hernández Sebastian Maniscalco, creating an “embarrassment of award‑show riches.”
- Audience Response: The speech was met with cheers and applause, solidifying Kimmel’s role as a key host.
5. Timothée Chalamet’s Kylie Jenner Shout‑Out
Perhaps the most heart‑warming moment of the night was Timothée Chalamet’s public shout‑out to his girlfriend Kylie Jenner. The pair’s sweet exchange added a personal touch to the ceremony’s narrative.
- Personal Tribute: Chalamet thanked his partner for her support: “Thank you to my partner of three years. Thank you for our foundation. I love you.”
- Audience Connection: Fans appreciated the romantic tone of the speech.
- Social Media Buzz: The moment quickly became an Instagram meme, capturing the public’s attention.
- Legacy Impact: The shout‑out added depth to the ceremony’s storytelling.
Conclusion
The 2026 Critics Choice Awards delivered a series of memorable moments that ranged from comedic monologues to heartfelt tributes and personal celebrations. Whether it was Chelsea Handler’s opening monologue, a tribute to Rob Reiner, or a sweet shout‑out from Timothée Chalamet to Kylie Jenner, each moment left a lasting impression. For those who missed the ceremony, you can catch every look from the 2026 Critics Choice Awards red carpet on our photo gallery.
See every look from the 2026 Critics Choice Awards red carpet here.
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