2026 Critics Choice Awards: A Celebration of Talent and Creativity Discover the unforgettable highlights from the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, a prestigious event dedicated to honoring outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry. This year's ceremony showcased remarkable talent, innovative creativity, and the remarkable contributions of artists across film and television. Join us as we delve into the memorable moments that defined this year's celebration of excellence.
Topics covered
The Critics Choice Awards took place in Santa Monica, showcasing a vivid array of talent in film and television. This annual event celebrates outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry, and this year, it was particularly electrifying, with Timothée Chalamet stealing the spotlight.
Chalamet, known for his captivating performances, won the Best Actor award for his role in the film Marty Supreme, triumphing over iconic actors like Leonardo DiCaprio, who was nominated for his work in One Battle After Another. This victory highlights Chalamet’s rising star status and signifies a shift in the industry, where young talent is increasingly recognized for their contributions.
Major winners of the night
Among the notable accolades, One Battle After Another was crowned Best Picture, a testament to its compelling storytelling and production quality. The film’s director, Paul Thomas Anderson, received the Best Director award, further solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller in modern cinema.
The evening also saw the film Sinners receiving four awards, highlighting its strong ensemble cast and production values. Francine Maisler took home the award for Best Casting and Ensemble, a new category introduced this year, celebrating the collaborative efforts that bring stories to life on screen.
Acting categories shine
In the acting categories, Jessie Buckley claimed the Best Actress award for her performance in Hamnet, while Jacob Elordi won Best Supporting Actor for his role in Frankenstein. Amy Madigan was recognized as Best Supporting Actress for her work in Weapons, showcasing the diverse range of narratives being explored in the industry.
The event also honored limited series and comedies, with Adolescence being awarded Best Limited Series. The acting awards in this category were given to Sarah Snook, Erin Doherty, Stephen Graham, and Owen Cooper, who collectively brought their characters to life in compelling ways.
New categories and notable performances
This year’s ceremony introduced several new categories, reflecting a growing recognition of various aspects of production. In addition to the aforementioned casting category, awards were also presented for Best Variety Series, Stunt Design, and Sound. This expansion demonstrates the Critics Choice Association’s commitment to evolving with the industry and acknowledging all facets of filmmaking and television production.
Hosting the event for the fourth consecutive year, Chelsea Handler brought her signature humor and charisma to the stage, entertaining the audience while navigating the evening’s proceedings. Her presence added an enjoyable layer to the event, making it memorable for both attendees and viewers at home.
Musical highlights and closing thoughts
The awards ceremony wasn’t just about film and acting; it also highlighted the best in music. The song “Golden” from the animated feature KPop Demon Hunters won Best Song, proving that the intersection of music and film remains a powerful storytelling tool.
The evening encapsulated the spirit of creativity and recognition that the Critics Choice Awards stand for, celebrating not just the winners but the artistry and dedication of everyone involved in the industry. With new categories and an emphasis on diverse storytelling, the Critics Choice Awards set a positive tone for the future of entertainment.
