Critics Choice Awards Kick Off 2026 Season with Star-Studded Event

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards took center stage on Sunday night at the Barker Hangar located at Santa Monica Airport, marking the beginning of this year’s awards season. For the first time in nine years, the Critics Choice Awards have taken precedence in the schedule, allowing this organization of film, television, and streaming journalists to influence the narrative for the upcoming months.

This year’s event features prominent contenders such as Timothée Chalamet for his role in *Marty Supreme* and Leonardo DiCaprio for *One Battle After Another*. Other notable nominees include Jesse Buckley for her performance in *Hamnet* and Amanda Seyfried for *The Testament of Ann Lee*. As the evening progresses, updates on winners will be provided live, enhancing viewer engagement and anticipation.

Fashion Highlights and Anticipated Moments

With the Critics Choice Awards serving as a precursor to the larger awards season, this event is also a focal point for fashion enthusiasts. Stars like Jacob Elordi from *Frankenstein* and Elle Fanning from *Sentimental Value* have previously been recognized for their fashion choices. This year, Teyana Taylor, known for her dynamic style and designer collaborations with Balmain and Tom Ford by Haider Ackermann, is expected to make a significant impact on the best-dressed lists.

The Critics Choice Awards not only honor outstanding films and performances but also set the stage for viral moments and style statements that often ripple through the industry. As the night unfolds, both the cinematic achievements and fashion will be closely watched, establishing various campaigns for the films and actors vying for the most prestigious accolades in the entertainment industry.

This year’s event, rich with talent and style, signifies an exciting start to the awards season, promising a range of discussions and buzz surrounding the films and performances that are set to dominate this year’s conversations.