Chelsea Handler Shades Nick Cannon and James Corden in Comical Critics' Choice Monologue
The comedian kicked off the 2023 Critics' Choice Awards.
Chelsea Handler never shies away from controversy, and that couldn't be more true when she hosted the 28th annual Critics' Choice Awards.
In her opening monologue, the comedian did not hold back, taking comical jabs at James Corden, Nick Cannon, and other Hollywood stars.
The 2023 Critics' Choice Awards were held at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.
“Before we get started, I just want everyone to know that we are here to have fun and keep the vibes high,” Handler said, kicking her monologue off.
"It is an honor to be your host tonight after everything that we have all been through together over the past few years between COVID, monkeypox, the Don’t Worry Darling press tour. It’s been a lot," referencing Olivia Wilde's film after the release of the movie was overshadowed by cast drama, including the speculation that Harry Styles spit on Chris Pine during the Venice International Film Festival.
Handler went on to shout out Viola Davis for her nomination for her performance in The Woman King where she noted that the actress "was given a DNA test to determine the best workout regimen for her genetic makeup."
"Which also, coincidentally, revealed that she is Nick Cannon’s daughter," she continued, taking shots at The Masked Singer host, who just welcomed his 12th child in December.
The host went on to give the cast of The Bear a shoutout, noting that the hit USA Network series showed the "grueling" side of the restaurant industry without even having to "wait on James Corden."
Back in October 2022, the host of the Late Late Show was banned from Keith McNally's restaurant, Balthazar, following rude behavior towards the staff. The host has since apologized and the ban has been lifted.
Not even Prince Harry was spared from her roasts, as she continued: "Dahmer became the third highest viewed show on Netflix with a combined watch time of 1 billion hours, which apparently is the same amount of time we're going to have to listen to Prince Harry talk about his frostbitten penis. It's enough, already." The comedian referenced the former royal's forthcoming new memoir titled "Spare."
Tonight marked Handlers' first time hosting the show. Ahead of the show, the comedian chatted with The Hollywood Reporter where she revealed how she was gearing up for the big event.
“I feel slight pressure, but I like a lot of pressure. I do my best work when I’m under pressure,” Handler said. “You want to challenge yourself. When you’re nervous for something, that means you care. My therapist taught me that, so I now look at nerves in a completely different light. You use that energy to fuel your performance and to also spread good vibes to everybody there. … My intention is just to have a great time and to make everybody feel comfortable and welcome — like they belong there."
