The 2026 Critics Choice Awards are set to take place on January 4, 2026, marking the beginning of the awards season. Comedian and television host Chelsea Handler will return for her fourth consecutive year as the host of the ceremony. Handler expressed excitement in a statement released in November 2025, 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 support of Handler’s return, Joey Berlin, CEO of the Critics Choice Association, praised her as “the best awards show host in the world” and noted her suitability for leading the celebration of talent in film and television. This year’s awards will feature new categories, including Best Variety Series, Best Stunt Design, and Best Casting and Ensemble, reflecting evolving trends in the entertainment industry.
On the film side, Ryan Coogler’s highly anticipated film, Sinners, leads the nominations with a remarkable total of 17 nods, including Best Picture and Best Director. Following closely is Paul Thomas Anderson’s film, One Battle After Another, which garnered 14 nominations.
The television nominations are equally competitive, with Netflix’s Adolescence receiving six nominations and Nobody Wants This securing five. The complete list of nominees highlights a diverse array of talent across both film and television.
Key Film and Television Categories
The nominations for Best Picture are as follows:
– One Battle After Another – Paul Thomas Anderson
– Sinners – Ryan Coogler
– Sentimental Value – Joachim Trier
Best Actor nominations include:
– Leonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another
– Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent
– Chase Infiniti – One Battle After Another
The Best Supporting Actor category features:
– Sean Penn – One Battle After Another
– Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value
– Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners
As for television, the Best Drama Series nominations include:
– Forever
– The Morning Show
– Nobody Wants This
In the comedy sector, the Best Actor in a Comedy Series nominees are:
– David Alan Grier – St. Denis Medical
– Ike Barinholtz – The Studio
– Chris Perfetti – Abbott Elementary
The 2026 Critics Choice Awards not only celebrate artistic excellence but also reflect the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. With the inclusion of new categories, the ceremony aims to recognize the contributions of diverse talents throughout the year.
For those wishing to catch the ceremony, it will be broadcast live on the E! Network. Additional streaming options will also be available, ensuring that fans worldwide can participate in this prestigious event.
As anticipation builds, the awards promise to highlight the best in film and television, with the winners set to be announced during the live ceremony on January 4.
