Chelsea Handler delivered sharp humor and social commentary as she hosted the 2025 Critics Choice Awards at Santa Monica's Barker Hangar on February 7, 2025. This annual event celebrated the best in film and television, but Handler ensured it was infused with her signature wit.
Kicking off her monologue, Handler didn’t hold back as she tackled the hot topic of the night: the contentious legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, stars of the upcoming film It Ends With Us. "Thank you for providing us with distraction," Handler quipped, lighting up the audience. "I think we’re all grateful and I think we’re good. It doesn’t matter whose side you’re on, we can accept there isn’t going to be a sequel," she humorously added, setting the tone for the evening.
Reflecting on her role as host for the third consecutive year, Handler expressed her delight with the shift to E! for the ceremony's broadcast. "I spent seven years on this network, I was the only woman hosting a late-night show. Now 11 years later, look how far we’ve come," she remarked. The crowd erupted with laughter and applause, appreciative of her candid remarks.
Handler's fearless approach to humor found its way through her clever digs at notable figures, including Ralph Fiennes and Colin Farrell. Addressing Fiennes, she jested about his varied roles, saying, "You’ve played a ruthless Nazi, an evil lord Dumbledore... somehow you’ve made me want to have sex with you... So, I’m begging you never play Vladimir Putin. I can’t do this again!” Her playful banter with the audience continued, noting how Farrell took four hours to transform for his role, and quipped, “Now we know how long it takes to make Colin Farrell unf**kable.”
The laughter continued as Handler called out child stars turned successful adults, remarking, "From Ariana to June, to succeed this year you had to survive Nickelodeon or World War II... I saw the documentary, Nickelodeon looked harder!" Handler playfully teased Ariana Grande's relationship with co-star Ethan Slater, saying, "And now Ariana has even found love with a munchkin," eliciting both laughter and surprise from the audience.
Handler also did not shy away from addressing notable performances from the past year. She comically referenced Nicole Kidman’s role in Babygirl, saying, "There were so many incredible musical performances... but technically, Babygirl wasn't a musical, but Nicole definitely hit some notes I've never heard before!" Her humor, grounded by references to the achievements and follies within the industry, struck the right balance, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
While Handler's monologue was laced with jokes, she also took time to acknowledge the seriousness of the recent LA wildfires and the efforts of first responders. “What we saw and the scope of loss was impossible to Imagine. It’s a reminder of each other’s resilience and determination,” she said. The audience responded with appreciation, standing to recognize the firefighters, Red Cross, and Habitat for Humanity volunteers present at the awards.
The Critics Choice Awards not only recognized achievements but also highlighted resilience within the entertainment industry. With awards for films like Wicked and Conclave, both leading the nominations, Handler's hosting reflected both the pride and humor of the industry.
Handler’s ability to weave serious themes with humor showcased her talent as both a comedian and host, reminding everyone of the importance of community and support, especially during challenging times. Her third time emceeing the Critics Choice Awards proved successful, as she encapsulated the spirit of Hollywood with laughter and heartfelt recognition.
Handler concluded the night on a high note, leaving the audience with smiles and perhaps some thoughts about the industry’s evolution and her own personal growth over the years. With her undeniable charm and razor-sharp wit, Handler once again proved she is not just anchoring the ceremony but also setting the stage for meaningful dialogue within the entertainment world.