Critics Choice 2025: Chelsea Handler Thanks Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively

The 2025 Critics Choice Awards took place recently, showcasing a night filled with celebration and recognition of the best in film and television. Host Chelsea Handler, known for her comedic flair, took the stage for her third time at this prestigious event.

Handler opened the ceremony with a monologue reflecting on the challenges of the past year, despite it being only February. "It's important in times like these to have a distraction," she said. Her words quickly turned to Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, whose ongoing legal dispute she highlighted playfully. "Thank you for providing us with that distraction," Handler noted, bringing light to a situation that has captured public interest.

This remark was met with laughter, especially as Handler humorously speculated on the future of the legal battle, suggesting there might not be a resolution in sight. "I think we're good!" Handler stated, acknowledging that regardless of the audience's opinions, it seemed unlikely there would be more to come from the case. She quipped, "It ends with us, guys."

Aside from addressing the legal drama, Handler made a lighthearted nod to her own time as host, saying her three years at the Critics Choice marked her "second-longest relationship." She also expressed gratitude toward the network airing the event, emphasizing her long history with television.

Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, "In 2025, the easiest way to get a late night talk show as a woman is to have the creators of Hacks write a fictional story about it." This comment underscored her awareness of the evolving landscape for female hosts in late-night television.

Handler's humor wasn't the only highlight of the night, as nominations for the film categories included popular titles such as Wicked and Conclave. The audience enjoyed a range of performers and creations recognized for their artistry.

In summary, Handler's witty remarks about Baldoni and Lively served as a memorable moment within a broader celebration of film and television at the Critics Choice Awards.

Awards, Chelsea, Handler