Chelsea Handler’s Bold ‘Labubu’ Comment Sparks Buzz at 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards
Chelsea Handler’s Bold ‘Labubu’ Comment Sparks Buzz at 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards
Los Angeles, June 18, 2026 – The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards kicked off with a mix of glamour and controversy as comedian Chelsea Handler made headlines for her unfiltered remark about actor Timothée Chalamet during the live broadcast. Handler’s off-the-cuff comment, calling Chalamet a “Labubu,” quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night, overshadowing some of the evening’s artistic accolades.
Background
The Critics’ Choice Awards, known for celebrating excellence in film and television, have long been a platform for both awards and unforgettable moments. Hosted at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, the 2026 ceremony was no exception. The event, which honors achievements across various categories, drew a star-studded audience, including some of Hollywood’s biggest names.
Chelsea Handler, a well-known comedian and television personality, has built a career on her candid and often provocative humor. Her presence at the awards added an unpredictable element to the evening, as fans and critics alike anticipated her signature wit.
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Key Developments
During the live broadcast, Handler took the stage to announce an award. In a moment that caught everyone by surprise, she referenced Timothée Chalamet, a rising star in Hollywood, with the term “Labubu.” The term, which has no clear origin, quickly became a trending topic on social media, sparking a wave of memes and reactions.
Chalamet, who was in attendance, responded with a playful smile, diffusing any potential tension. The incident was widely seen as a lighthearted joke, though some critics questioned whether it crossed a line.
Impact
The “Labubu” comment dominated post-awards discussions, with many praising Handler’s fearless humor while others debated the appropriateness of her remark. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with some fans defending Handler’s approach as a playful jab, while others called it unnecessary.
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For Chalamet, the moment added another layer to his growing public persona. Known for his roles in critically acclaimed films, the actor has often been the subject of media attention, but this was a rare instance where he became a meme-worthy figure outside of his work.
What Next
As the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards fade into memory, the “Labubu” moment is likely to remain a memorable part of the ceremony’s history. Handler, who has faced similar controversies in the past, is expected to continue her unfiltered approach, while Chalamet will likely brush off the comment as part of the Hollywood experience.
Future awards shows may take note of the incident, with some hosts potentially avoiding similar risks, while others might embrace Handler’s bold style. The debate over where humor ends and etiquette begins is sure to persist in the entertainment industry.
