At the Critics Choice Awards in Santa Monica, host Chelsea Handler set the tone with a mix of humor and social commentary.
Acknowledging the challenges facing the nation, she joked that the ongoing dispute between *It Ends With Us* stars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively had at least provided a national distraction.
“I think we’re all grateful, and I think we’re good,” Handler quipped as she returned to host the awards for the third time at Barker Hangar.
Baldoni, who also directed the film, and Lively, the film’s producer, are entangled in a legal battle. Lively has accused Baldoni of misconduct, while Baldoni has filed a defamation lawsuit in response. Neither attended the event.
Handler lightened the moment by saying, “No matter whose side you’re on, I think we can all agree—there’s probably not going to be a sequel. It ends with us.”
The comedian also praised nominees, including Cynthia Erivo (*Wicked*) and Ralph Fiennes, joking that even in roles like Voldemort, Fiennes somehow remained attractive.
The night also honored Los Angeles firefighters who responded to last month’s devastating fires. Actress Kathy Bates, accepting an award, expressed deep gratitude, noting that a producer of CBS’ *Matlock* had lost his home in the fires.
