Critics Choice Awards 2026: Celebrating Excellence in Entertainment
Critics Choice Awards 2026
The 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards 2026 are scheduled to take place on Sunday, January 4, 2026, live from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. This ceremony officially kicks off the 2026 major awards season, traditionally serving as a key indicator for the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.
Event Details
- Host: Comedian Chelsea Handler returns for her fourth consecutive year as host.
- Broadcasters: The ceremony airs live from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM ET on both E! and USA Network.
- Red Carpet: A "Live From E!" red carpet special begins at 5:00 PM ET.
- Streaming: The show will be available to stream live via the USA and E! apps and on-demand on fuboTV starting the following day. Indian viewers can stream it via JioHotstar on January 5.
- New Categories: For the 2026 edition, four new categories have been added: Best Variety Series, Best Stunt Design, Best Casting and Ensemble, and Best Sound.
- Sinners: Leads all nominees with 17 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director (Ryan Coogler), and Best Actor (Michael B. Jordan).
- One Battle After Another: Follows with 14 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson), and Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio).
- Frankenstein & Hamnet: Both received 11 nominations each.
- Other Best Picture Nominees: Bugonia, Jay Kelly, Marty Supreme, Sentimental Value, Train Dreams, and Wicked: For Good.
- Adolescence: Leads the TV field with 6 nominations, including Best Limited Series and Best Actor in a Limited Series (Stephen Graham).
- Nobody Wants This: Earned 5 nominations, including Best Comedy Series and Lead Acting nods for Adam Brody and Kristen Bell.
- Other Major Nominees: Severance, The Pitt, , , The Diplomat, and The Gilded Age.
- Colman Domingo
- Allison Janney
- Quinta Brunson
- Jeff Goldblum
- Diego Luna
- Ava DuVernay
- Justin Hartley
- Hannah Einbinder
- Kaley Cuoco
- Billy Bob Thornton
Why Are the Critics Choice Awards Important?
The Critics Choice Awards hold a special place in the hearts of both industry professionals and audiences alike. With a focus on recognizing excellence in both film and television, the awards celebrate the artistry and talent that goes into creating some of our favorite entertainment.
- Industry Recognition: Winning a Critics Choice Award is a mark of excellence and recognition from one's peers in the industry. It can open doors and bring new opportunities for actors, directors, and other creatives.
- Audience Approval: The Critics Choice Awards also serve as a barometer of public opinion, with winners often reflecting the best-loved films and shows of the year. Fans look to the awards as a guide for what to watch next.
- Setting Trends: In addition to celebrating existing talent, the Critics Choice Awards can also help to set trends and shape the future of the industry. Winning an award can elevate a project to new heights of success and influence.
Final Thoughts
As we look forward to the Critics Choice Awards 2026, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. Who will take home the top honors this year? What surprises and memorable moments will the ceremony bring? One thing is for sure - the Critics Choice Awards are sure to be a night to remember.
