Handler Honors Late Director Rob Reiner at Critics Choice Awards

Host Chelsea Handler delivered a moving tribute to Rob Reiner during the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, calling the late director Hollywood's "nicest guy" and emphasizing his character above all else. Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner died at their Brentwood home on December 14th from "multiple sharp force injuries." Their son Nick Reiner faces charges in connection with the deaths.

The January 4th ceremony provided Handler with a platform to remember the Spinal Tap filmmaker. "Everyone in this room knows that the nicest guy in Hollywood was Rob Reiner," Handler told the audience. She described how meeting Reiner felt like reconnecting with an old friend, praising his genuine interest in others.

A Legacy of Kindness

"He was present, he was focused, and he was funny, and he would ask you tons of questions, whether you were discussing politics or film or the latest beauty trends," Handler continued. She focused on what made Reiner and his wife special beyond their professional achievements.

Handler stressed their commitment to various causes, all rooted in basic human decency. "Rob and Michele were tireless in their efforts to so many important causes, all stemming from one basic idea: decency, and that we should all look out for each other," she said. "I think we can all agree that we definitely need more of that."

Award Night Winners

The evening saw "One Battle After Another" claim Best Picture, with Paul Thomas Anderson taking Best Director. Timothée Chalamet won Best Actor for "Marty Supreme," while Jessie Buckley earned Best Actress for "Hamnet."

Jimmy Kimmel secured Best Talk Show, thanking Donald Trump "for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day" during his acceptance speech. Handler used the moment to encourage attendees to remember what Reiner and his wife represented.