Chelsea Handler Returns to Host Critics Choice Awards 2026: How to Watch
Chelsea Handler Returns to Host Critics Choice Awards 2026: How to Watch
Chelsea Handler hosts the Critics Choice Awards 2026 live on E! and USA Network—find streaming options, top nominations, and new behind-the-scenes trophy categories.
The 31st Critics Choice Awards are set to light up TV screens on January 4, 2026, with Chelsea Handler returning to host for the fourth year in a row. The ceremony will air on E! and USA Network at 7 p.m. ET/PT, with viewers also able to stream via DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling.
This year’s gala is returning to Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, after last year’s delay due to fires. For the first time, trophies will be awarded to below-the-line talent—cinematography, sound, stunt design, and casting and ensemble—highlighting the craft behind the scenes.
In the nominations race, ‘Sinners’ leads with 17 nominations, followed by ‘One Battle After Another’ with 14, and both ‘Hamnet’ and ‘Frankenstein’ with 11. On the TV side, Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ tops with six nominations.
The Critics Choice Association also introduced four new categories this year, including Best Variety Series, Best Stunt Design, Best Casting and Ensemble, and Best Sound, signaling a broader recognition of creative work in both film and television.
Winners will be announced live from Barker Hangar, with fans tuning in to see the surprises and the likely pull of early season favorites as awards season kicks off.
If you’re planning to watch without cable, DirecTV’s streaming, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling offer access to E! and USA Network, with trials and introductory offers that can help new viewers catch the ceremony.
