Chelsea Handler once again took center stage at the Barker Hangar, hosting the 31st Critics Choice Awards on Sunday night. The comedian, marking her fourth time as host, kicked off the ceremony with a monologue that masterfully blended humor, industry critique, and heartfelt tributes.
A Monologue Full of Bite and Industry Commentary
Handler did not hold back, directing one of her sharpest jokes at Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav. She cleverly referenced the film Sinners, describing it as a movie where vampires arrive, drain everyone's life, and destroy everything. She then delivered the punchline, stating, "Fun fact: The original name of the main vampire was David Zaslav." The camera captured actor Michael B. Jordan, a star of the film, shaking his head in reaction.
She also commented on the film's substantial global box office earnings of nearly $368 million, questioning the media's focus on such numbers and specifically calling out coverage from Variety. Her humor extended to pop culture, as she joked about rapper Nicki Minaj in a bit connected to Sinners, saying, "I haven't been invited to a black person's house since Sinners. Only person who has invited me is Nicki Minaj but who wants to go over there?"
Hollywood Personalities in the Crosshairs
Handler's comedic targets were varied. She poked fun at actor Seth Rogen, suggesting his long career of playing "stoners, slackers and underachievers" was the perfect preparation for his role as a studio head. Even A-list star Leonardo DiCaprio wasn't spared. She joked about his recent travel troubles that caused him to miss the Palm Springs Film Festival while holidaying near St. Barts, quipping, "It was just like the Titanic but worse because Jeff Bezos was there."
Television also received significant attention. Handler praised original series and highlighted the Canadian hit Heated Rivalry, noting its broad appeal. She said, "Everyone loves it: Gay men love it, women love it, straight men who say they aren't gay but work out at Equinox love it." She also referenced the show Landman with jokes about Billy Bob Thornton and Taylor Sheridan, and singled out Adam Sandler, through Jay Kelly, as "the nicest guy in Hollywood."
A Heartfelt Tribute to Conclude
The monologue concluded on a poignant and respectful note with a tribute to Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. Handler shared a personal text exchange with Reiner, recalling his warmth, humor, and curiosity. She praised the couple's dedication to numerous important causes, stating their efforts all stemmed from a fundamental belief in "decency." She urged the audience to let the evening serve as a reminder of the values the Reiners represent.
Overall, Chelsea Handler's return as host proved to be a successful blend of pointed comedy and sincere homage, setting the tone for the 31st Critics Choice Awards ceremony.
