Chelsea Handler Honors Rob Reiner at Critics Choice Awards

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards featured an emotional tribute to the late director Rob Reiner, delivered by host Chelsea Handler. The ceremony took place less than a month after the tragic deaths of Reiner and his wife.

Handler concluded her opening monologue with heartfelt words regarding the filmmaker. She referred to him as the 'Nicest Guy in Hollywood' and asked the audience to use the evening as a reminder of his decency.

The tribute highlighted the impact Reiner had on the industry and his reputation for kindness. By focusing on his character, Handler set a tone of respect and remembrance for the event.

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards served as a platform for honoring the film and television industry's achievements. However, the event also carried a somber tone due to recent losses within the community.

The ceremony occurred less than a month following the passing of director Rob Reiner and his wife. This timing made the tribute a poignant moment for attendees and viewers alike.

As the host of the evening, Chelsea Handler was responsible for guiding the show. She utilized her position to address the loss directly, integrating a personal reflection into the night's proceedings.

Chelsea Handler concluded her opening monologue by shifting focus to the late director. She shared heartfelt words specifically regarding Rob Reiner, acknowledging his presence in the room through his legacy.

Handler characterized Reiner with a specific compliment, referring to him as the 'Nicest Guy in Hollywood.' This description emphasized his reputation for kindness within the industry.

In her address, Handler urged the audience to reflect on Reiner's character. She stated, "Let’s Use Tonight as a Reminder" of his 'decency,' highlighting the values he represented.

The tribute at the Critics Choice Awards underscored the high regard in which Rob Reiner was held by his peers. The emotional nature of the acknowledgment reflected his significant influence on those in attendance.

By focusing on his personal attributes rather than just his professional work, the tribute highlighted the human element of his legacy. The emphasis on his decency serves as a lasting memory for the industry.

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards served as a moment of collective remembrance for Rob Reiner. Through Chelsea Handler's words, the industry paused to acknowledge the loss of a respected figure.

The event successfully balanced celebration of artistic achievement with a respectful nod to those no longer present. The tribute ensured that Reiner's legacy of kindness was recognized alongside the night's competitive awards.