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Entertainment · October 29, 2026

Janelle James to Host Critics Choice Awards

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Actress and comedian Janelle James will host the 32nd annual Critics Choice Awards on January 3, 2027. Known for her breakout role as Ava Coleman on Abbott Elementary, for which she has received five consecutive Emmy nominations, James succeeds Chelsea Handler after the latter's four-year tenure as emcee. The ceremony will take place at The Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, and will be broadcast live on E! and USA Network. The announcement, made on October 29 by Critics Choice Association CEO Joey Berlin, precedes the release of James’ first hour-long Netflix stand-up special and the announcement of award nominees scheduled for December 4.

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Reported by multiple outlets

  • Janelle James is the host of the 32nd annual Critics Choice Awards.
  • The ceremony will take place on January 3.
  • James is a five-time Emmy nominee for her role on Abbott Elementary.
  • James follows Chelsea Handler as the host.
  • James will debut a stand-up special on Netflix on November 10.

Reported by only some outlets

  • The 2027 ceremony will air live on E! and USA Network.
  • The event will be held at The Barker Hangar in Santa Monica.
  • Nominations for the awards will be announced on December 4.
  • James won an NAACP Image Award in 2023 and 2026.
  • James is currently developing the Hulu comedy Rock City.

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