Chelsea Handler Returning to Host Critics Choice Awards 2026

Get ready to laugh until it hurts.

Chelsea Handler is returning to host the Critics Choice Awards 2026 for the fourth consecutive year.

Airing live Sunday, Jan. 4, across E! and USA networks, the renowned comedian, TV host and New York Times best-selling author will once again bring her signature sense of envelope-pushing humor and wit to the Critics Choice Association’s 31st annual ceremony.

And the Chelsea Lately alum is stoked to emcee Hollywood’s very first award show of 2026.

“Kicking off the year with the Critics Choice Awards feels right,” Handler said in a Nov. 17 announcement. “Nothing says ‘new beginnings’ like a room full of critics ready to tell you how you did last year.”

Dubbing Handler “the best awards show host in the world,” CCA CEO Joey Berlin added, “We are absolutely thrilled to have her back on our stage, mixing her trademark mix of humor and heart in front of hundreds of stars who enjoy her as much as we do. Recognizing and celebrating the most deserving achievements in film and television is important, but it’s also great fun and Chelsea is the perfect person to lead the parade.”