TV host Chelsea Handler expressed her gratitude to actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni during her opening monologue at the Critics Choice Awards on Friday night. The comedian remarked that individuals in Los Angeles and throughout the nation have faced significant challenges recently, emphasizing the need for a “distraction” during such times.
While Handler’s comments elicited laughter from the audience, they also drew criticism on social media for allegedly “trivialising” the ongoing feud.
Lively, 37, filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, 41, in December, accusing him of sexual harassment and conducting a smear campaign. In response, Baldoni has counter-sued Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, alleging civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy.
The ceremony, held in Santa Monica, commenced with Handler expressing her appreciation for the first responders who bravely confronted the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
“I want to recognize the challenges we’ve faced recently, not only here in Los Angeles but across our nation, as we wake up each day uncertain of the news that may bring us disappointment or fear,” she remarked.
“In such times, having a distraction becomes essential. Therefore, I would like to personally thank Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively.
“Thank you for offering us that much-needed distraction. I am truly grateful… I believe everyone in this room, regardless of their affiliations, can agree that a sequel is unlikely.”
Read more: Zoe Saldaña is reflecting on comments from her ‘Emilia Pérez’ co-star, Karla Sofía Gascón.
Handler wrapped up her remarks by referencing the upcoming 2024 film “It Ends With Us,” in which Lively and Baldoni share the screen. Neither Baldoni nor Lively attended the awards ceremony on Friday evening. Online video clips indicate that the audience responded positively to Handler’s monologue. However, reactions on social media were mixed, with one user on X accusing Handler of “trivializing” the ongoing feud, while another criticized the humor as “in poor taste.”
In other highlights, Demi Moore made significant strides in the Oscars race by winning the best actress award at Friday’s event. The 62-year-old actress, who also claimed the same honor at last month’s Golden Globes, has experienced a remarkable career revival due to her performance in the body horror film “The Substance.” “This has been such a wild ride,” Moore expressed.
She expressed gratitude to critics for recognizing “this genre of horror films, which often go unnoticed despite their depth.” Moore’s victory came at the expense of Karla Sofia Gascon, who faced backlash over past tweets related to her role in “Emilia Perez.” Nonetheless, the Spanish-language musical secured several accolades, including best supporting actress for Zoe Saldana.
The film “Anora,” which tells the story of a stripper and occasional sex worker who marries the entitled son of a Russian oligarch, won the best picture award, marking a significant achievement after missing out in earlier categories. Anora’s success alters the dynamics of the competition for the prestigious Oscar next month.
Additional winners from the evening included Adrian Brody, who took home the best actor award for his performance in the historical epic “The Brutalist,” and Jon M. Chu, who was honored as best director for “Wicked.”
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