Typically, the only thing the media can vote on at an awards show is the red carpet’s best-dressed list. But not at the Critics Choice Awards! At the annual ceremony hosted by the American-Canadian Critics Choice Association (CCA), winners are selected by print, broadcast, and digital journalists who cover entertainment.
This year’s awards took place at the Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport, with Chelsea Handler returning to host for the second year in a row. She got things off to a strong start — only very subtly making a jab at her ex’s controversial hosting gig at the Golden Globes last weekend.
Like the Globes, the Critics Choice Awards are set up dinner party-style, meaning its A-list guests are free to mingle between commercial breaks. This tends to be when the real fun happens — celebs snap their selfies (they’re just like us!), and casts have mini-reunions months after wrapping. (The Morning Show’s Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, for example, could be seen catching up; both were nominated for best actress in a drama series.)
Co-nominees Billie Eilish (in a slick Thom Browne corset) and Dua Lipa (in a Merlot-colored Prada number) posed for several photos; Oprah Winfrey, still repping The Color Purple with her red carpet looks, hugged seatmate Danielle Brooks. Elsewhere, Succession (nominated for best drama series) star Nicholas Braun chatted it up with Barbie’s Margot Robbie (in a Barbie-esque Balmain dress, she took a beat from her archival Barbie getups), and Bill Hader (up for best actor in a comedy series) seemed to make the rounds alongside his girlfriend, Ali Wong — who was voted best actress in a limited series or movie made for television for her turn in Beef.
The Critics Choice Awards never fail to bring together the biggest names in entertainment, and this year was no exception. A-list celebrities and talented casts mingled and snapped selfies at the Barker Hangar, as journalists from print, broadcast, and digital media outlets gathered to celebrate the industry’s finest talents. Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the awards ceremony had its fair share of memorable moments and heartwarming reunions.
One of the highlights of the evening was the reunion between Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, both nominated for Best Actress in a Drama Series for their roles in The Morning Show. The two talented actresses, who share a close bond both on and off the screen, took the opportunity to catch up and reminisce about their experience working together.
The event also saw Billie Eilish and Dua Lipa, co-nominees in different categories, posing for several photos. Eilish stunned in a sleek Thom Browne corset, while Lipa looked radiant in a Merlot-colored Prada gown. The musical talents brought their unique style and charisma to the event, creating a buzz among the attendees.
Oprah Winfrey, known for her iconic role in The Color Purple, embraced her seatmate Danielle Brooks with warmth and affection. The two shared a heartfelt moment, symbolizing the camaraderie and support within the entertainment industry.
Nicholas Braun, a star of the critically acclaimed series Succession, engaged in a spirited conversation with Margot Robbie, who looked stunning in a Barbie-esque Balmain dress. Robbie, known for her portrayal of Barbie in an upcoming film, took a break from her signature Barbie-inspired outfits to attend the awards.
Bill Hader, nominated for Best Actor in a Comedy Series, was seen accompanying his girlfriend, Ali Wong. Wong, recognized for her outstanding performance in Beef, was voted Best Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Made for Television. The couple radiated happiness as they made their rounds at the event.
The Critics Choice Awards once again provided an opportunity for industry professionals to come together, celebrate their achievements, and share memorable moments. The relaxed atmosphere of the event allowed for candid interactions and an abundance of selfies, reminding us that even the biggest stars are just like us.
In this unique awards show, where journalists have the power to select the winners, recognition is given to the best and brightest in the entertainment industry. As the evening unfolded, it became evident that the Critics Choice Awards continue to be a platform of appreciation for talent, camaraderie, and the celebration of outstanding work.
As the night came to a close, the attendees left the Barker Hangar with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The Critics Choice Awards proved once again to be a significant event that highlights the excellence and creativity of the entertainment industry.
The Critics Choice Awards delivered an evening of nostalgia, star-studded reunions, and stunning fashion moments. The event showcased the best of the best, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
