Actress and comedian Janelle James delivered one of the standout moments of the 31st Critics Choice Awards on Sunday night, Jan. 4, 2026, winning Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her acclaimed performance on Abbott Elementary, further cementing her place as one of television’s most compelling comedic voices.
James’ win was part of a night that celebrated excellence across film and television, with industry heavyweights and breakout talents sharing the spotlight at the ceremony, which aired live from Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar on E! and USA Network.
While James earned cheers for her sharp, scene-stealing portrayal on the hit ABC series, the evening’s top film honor went to One Battle After Another, which was named Best Picture. The film’s director, Paul Thomas Anderson, also took home Best Director, underscoring the project’s critical dominance.
Comedy and Television Take Center Stage
In television comedy categories, The Studio emerged as Best Comedy Series, with Seth Rogen winning Best Actor and Ike Barinholtz claiming Best Supporting Actor. Jean Smart continued her awards momentum with a Best Actress win for Hacks, while Janelle James’ victory for Abbott Elementary was widely praised as a defining moment for the genre.
Late-night television also had its moment, with Jimmy Kimmel Live! earning Best Talk Show, while South Park was named Best Animated Series.
Acting and Film Highlights
In the film acting categories, Timothée Chalamet won Best Actor for Marty Supreme, and Jessie Buckley took Best Actress honors for Hamnet. Supporting acting trophies went to Jacob Elordi (Frankenstein) and Amy Madigan (Weapons).
The film Sinners enjoyed a strong night, winning multiple awards including Best Original Screenplay (Ryan Coogler), Best Score (Ludwig Göransson), Best Young Actor (Miles Caton), and the newly introduced Best Casting and Ensemble, awarded to casting director Francine Maisler.
Drama and Limited Series Wins
On the drama side, The Pitt was named Best Drama Series, with acting wins for Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa. Pluribus star Rhea Seehorn won Best Actress in a Drama Series, while Severance’s Tramell Tillman earned Best Supporting Actor.
Netflix’s Adolescence dominated the limited-series categories, winning Best Limited Series, along with acting awards for Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, and Erin Doherty.
A Night of Evolution
Hosted for the fourth consecutive year by Chelsea Handler, the Critics Choice Awards introduced four new categories this year, including Best Casting and Ensemble, Best Stunt Design, Best Sound, and Best Variety Series, reflecting the industry’s evolving appreciation for behind-the-scenes craft.
Janelle James’ Critics Choice victory is a personal recognition, and another milestone for Abbott Elementary and its growing cultural impact.
