Critics Choice Awards 2026: Leonardo DiCaprio Gets BRUTALLY Roasted By Host Chelsea Handler Over Jeff Bezos Friendship

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31st annual Critics Choice Awards kicked off awards season on a high note, but it was host Chelsea Handler’s sharp wit that truly stole the spotlight. Returning as host for the fourth consecutive year, the comedian set the tone with a bold and unapologetic opening monologue that spared no one - including Leonardo DiCaprio. The ceremony, broadcast live on January 4, from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, celebrated the best in film and television from the past year, even as Handler’s humor ensured plenty of viral moments.

Chelsea Handler's newest target - Leonardo DiCaprio

Chelsea Handler took playful yet pointed aim at Leonardo DiCaprio during her monologue, calling attention to the actor’s recent vacation with Amazon founder and billionaire Jeff Bezos. Spotting DiCaprio seated in the audience, Handler quipped, “Leo's here,” before adding with mock relief, “Thank God. Leo almost didn't make it tonight because he was trapped on a boat in St. Bart's. It was just like the Titanic, but worse, because Jeff Bezos was there.” The joke drew loud laughter from the audience and instantly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night. Leo himself was seen smiling at the jab.

The jab referenced DiCaprio’s recent trip to St. Bart’s, where he was photographed vacationing with several celebrity friends, including Bezos. The actor reportedly faced difficulties leaving the Caribbean due to air restrictions following the recent U.S.-Venezuela conflict. As a result, DiCaprio missed the Palm Springs International Film Festival, where he was scheduled to receive the Desert Palm Achievement Award for his performance in One Battle After Another. Despite the travel hiccup, DiCaprio made it to the Critics Choice Awards, where he is nominated for his role in the same film.

More about Critics Choice Awards 2026

Beyond the headline-making roast, the Critics Choice Awards 2026 officially launched the awards season. The Critics Choice Association honoured standout achievements across film and television, with Sinners leading the film category with 17 nominations, while Netflix’s Adolescence dominated the television side with six nods and 3 main award wins. Squid Game, Avatar: Fire And Ash were among winners of the night. Amid celebrations, nominations and big wins, Handler’s roast of DiCaprio ensured that the night delivered not just accolades, but also unforgettable laughs.