Chelsea Handler returned as host of the Critics Choice Awards 2026 and opened the show with her trademark sharp humor and confidence. This marked her fourth year in a row hosting the popular awards ceremony, which took place on January 4 at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. As soon as she stepped on stage, Handler set a playful tone, making it clear the audience was in for a fun and entertaining night filled with jokes about Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Chelsea Handler Roasts Leonardo DiCaprio at Critics Choice Awards
One of the highlights of her opening monologue was a joke aimed at Leonardo DiCaprio. Handler pointed out that DiCaprio was present in the audience and teased that he almost missed the ceremony. She joked that he had been “trapped” on a yacht in St. Bart’s, comparing the situation to the Titanic but adding that it was worse because billionaire Jeff Bezos was also there. The joke received loud laughter and applause from the audience, showing that the light-hearted roast was taken in good spirits.
Handler’s joke referred to a recent real-life situation involving DiCaprio. The actor had been vacationing in St. Bart’s with friends, including Jeff Bezos, when air travel restrictions in the Caribbean prevented him from leaving on time. Because of this, DiCaprio missed the Palm Springs International Film Festival, where he was supposed to receive a major award for his role in the film One Battle After Another. At the Critics Choice Awards, DiCaprio was nominated again for the same performance.
Beyond the jokes, the 2026 Critics Choice Awards marked an important moment in the awards season. The event celebrated the best movies and television shows of the past year, with Sinners leading the film nominations and Netflix’s Adolescence topping the TV categories. This year also introduced four new award categories, including Best Variety Series and Best Stunt Design, showing how the ceremony continues to grow and evolve.
Read more: Nikki Glaser Reveals Which Jokes She Will Avoid While Hosting 2026 Golden Globes Ceremony
The ceremony also followed a challenging year for Los Angeles, after major wildfires caused damage and displacement in early 2025. In previous years, Handler used her platform to honor firefighters and volunteers, and her return as host once again brought a sense of unity and resilience. With humor, warmth, and timely jokes, Chelsea Handler successfully kicked off the Critics Choice Awards 2026, reminding audiences why she remains one of the most popular hosts in Hollywood.
Author: Purnima s
Purnima | Entertainment Blogger 4+ yrs writing fun blogs on movies, celebs & trends. Pop culture addict serving fresh, binge-worthy content!
