Critics Choice Awards 2026: Top Nominations and Highlights Revealed

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards are set to commence on January 4, 2026, marking the start of a new awards season. Hosted by Chelsea Handler for the fourth consecutive year, the ceremony promises to be a celebration of excellence in film and television. Handler emphasized the significance of the event, 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.”

In a show of support, Joey Berlin, CEO of the Critics Choice Association, praised Handler, calling her “the best awards show host in the world” and highlighting her role in celebrating Hollywood’s finest.

This year, the Critics Choice Awards will introduce several new categories, including Best Variety Series, Best Stunt Design, and Best Casting and Ensemble. These additions reflect the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry and acknowledge the various talents contributing to it.

As nominations were unveiled in December 2025, Ryan Coogler’s film *Sinners* emerged as a frontrunner, securing a total of 17 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Following closely behind, Paul Thomas Anderson’s *One Battle After Another* garnered 14 nominations, solidifying its place as a contender in multiple categories.

On the television side, Netflix’s *Adolescence* and *Nobody Wants This* led the nominations, with six and five nods, respectively. This reflects the growing influence of streaming platforms in the industry.

The full list of nominees includes notable talents and productions. In the category for Best Picture, *One Battle After Another* received multiple nominations, with Anderson himself nominated for Best Director. Other contenders include *Sentimental Value* by Joachim Trier and *The Secret Agent* featuring Wagner Moura.

The Best Supporting Actor category showcases a mix of established and emerging talent, with nominees such as Sean Penn and Elle Fanning. Meanwhile, the Best Actor in a Comedy Series includes names like David Alan Grier and Chris Perfetti.

The 31st annual Critics Choice Awards will be broadcast live on the E! Network, allowing fans to witness the celebration of cinematic and television achievements. Coverage will also include red carpet events, offering insights into the latest fashion trends among the stars.

As anticipation builds for the ceremony, viewers can look forward to a night filled with recognition of outstanding contributions to film and television. The Critics Choice Awards not only honor the artists behind the work but also serve as a barometer for the industry leading into the Oscars and other major awards.

For those interested in tuning in, the show will be available via various streaming services, ensuring that audiences worldwide can participate in the festivities. The excitement surrounding the Critics Choice Awards highlights the vibrant landscape of entertainment, where every nomination carries the weight of artistic merit and public acclaim.