The 2026 Critics Choice Awards provided a memorable moment as actors Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downs humorously impersonated celebrities Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet on the red carpet. The event took place on January 4, 2026, in Santa Monica, where the duo’s outfits and performance drew significant attention, turning heads away from the main event.
Stalter and Downs, stars of the HBO series Hacks, arrived dressed in vibrant orange ensembles that mirrored the couple’s recent appearance at the Marty Supreme premiere. Downs sported a striking orange leather suit, complete with a silk shirt and matching boots, while Stalter donned an eye-catching floor-length gown featuring daring cutouts. Their outfits were crafted by designer Erica D. Schwartz, but it was their spirited performance that truly captivated the audience.
The pair expertly recreated Jenner and Chalamet’s poses from the Marty Supreme premiere, mimicking their body language and red carpet interactions. Stalter, embodying Jenner’s demeanor, struck poses for photographers, adjusted Downs’ hand placement, and even performed a dramatic hair flip, perfectly capturing the essence of the original couple’s playful chemistry.
As the evening progressed, co-stars from Hacks, including Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, joined Stalter and Downs on the carpet, adding to the star-studded atmosphere. The show itself, which has received multiple accolades, features Smart as a seasoned Las Vegas comedian navigating a complicated mentorship with a young writer.
While the comedic performance was a highlight, the event also celebrated numerous nominees across various categories. Chalamet is nominated for Best Actor for his role in Marty Supreme, competing against distinguished actors such as Ethan Hawke and Michael B. Jordan. The Best Actress category includes talents like Jessie Buckley and Emma Stone, showcasing a diverse array of performances.
The Critics Choice Awards, which began in 1995, have evolved into a major event in the awards season calendar. This year, the ceremony introduced four new categories, including Best Variety Series and Best Stunt Design, aiming to honor a wider range of talent across film and television.
As the evening’s festivities unfolded, anticipation built for the awards, with nominees and presenters alike expected to shine on the red carpet. Notable presenters included Colman Domingo, Regina Hall, and Bradley Whitford, all contributing to the vibrant celebration of cinematic and television excellence.
The 31st Critics Choice Awards aired live on USA Network and E! starting at 19:00 ET, marking another significant moment in the awards season, highlighting the intersection of humor, style, and recognition in the entertainment industry.
