The 2026 Critics Choice Awards took place on January 4, 2026, celebrating outstanding achievements in film and television. Hosted by Chelsea Handler for the fourth consecutive year, the event showcased the best of the previous year’s entertainment. Handler emphasized the significance of the awards, stating, “Kicking off the year with the Critics Choice Awards feels right — nothing says ‘new beginnings’ like a room full of critics ready to tell you how you did last year.”
Critics Choice Association CEO Joey Berlin praised Handler, calling her “the best awards show host in the world” and the ideal choice to lead this prestigious event. This year, the ceremony introduced new categories such as Best Variety Series, Best Stunt Design, and Best Casting and Ensemble, reflecting an evolving landscape in the industry.
On the film side, Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners led the nominations with a remarkable total of 17 nods, including Best Picture and Best Director. Following closely was Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another, which received 14 nominations.
In television, Netflix’s Adolescence and Nobody Wants This garnered significant attention, earning six and five nominations, respectively. The event highlighted a diverse range of talent and stories, underscoring the richness of contemporary film and television.
Notable Winners and Categories
As the winners were announced, several names stood out. For Best Picture, Sinners claimed the top honor, while Paul Thomas Anderson won Best Director for his work on One Battle After Another.
The Best Actor category saw Leonardo DiCaprio awarded for his performance in One Battle After Another, while Elle Fanning took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in Sentimental Value. In a competitive field, Wunmi Mosaku was recognized as Best Supporting Actor for her performance in Sinners.
The ceremony also celebrated excellence in technical categories, with winners in cinematography, production design, and score. Highlights included accolades for Best Cinematography and Best Production Design, showcasing the artistry behind filmmaking.
A Celebration of Talent
The 2026 Critics Choice Awards not only recognized individual achievements but also celebrated the collaborative spirit of the industry. With a focus on diversity, the awards reflected a broad array of voices and perspectives.
Both nominees and winners contributed to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a memorable start to the awards season. As the event concluded, the excitement surrounding the winners and their work continued to resonate, setting the tone for the upcoming year in entertainment.
For those interested in catching the ceremony, it was broadcast live on the E! Network and is available for streaming on various platforms. The Critics Choice Awards continue to be a pivotal event in recognizing and celebrating the talent and creativity that shape the film and television landscape.
