Timothee Chalamet and Jessie Buckley captured prestigious acting awards at the Critics Choice Awards, marking a significant start to Hollywood’s awards season. Both actors are front-runners for the upcoming Oscars, set to be announced later this month, and are also contenders at the Golden Globes this weekend.
Why It Matters
The Critics Choice Awards serve as a critical barometer for the Oscars, highlighting standout performances in film and television. Winning significant accolades early in the season can bolster an actor’s visibility and viability for future awards, generating momentum leading up to the Oscars.
Key Developments
- Chalamet won the best actor award for his role in Marty Supreme, thanking his partner Kylie Jenner and director Josh Safdie during his acceptance speech.
- Buckley was named best actress for her performance in Hamnet, a film exploring the relationship between Shakespeare and his wife.
- Leonardo DiCaprio’s film One Battle After Another claimed the best picture award, while Paul Thomas Anderson earned the best director title.
- The British drama Adolescence received four awards, including acting honors for its cast, Stephen Graham, Erin Doherty, and Owen Cooper.
Full Report
Chalamet’s Triumph
Timothee Chalamet took home the best actor honor for his portrayal of a young man aspiring to become a table tennis champion in the film Marty Supreme. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to director Josh Safdie for creating a narrative about a “flawed man with a relatable dream.” He also took a moment to thank Jenner, acknowledging her role in his journey, stating, “I couldn’t do this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Buckley’s Acknowledgments
Jessie Buckley won best actress for her role in the historical drama Hamnet, which is adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s novel about the life of William Shakespeare. During her heartfelt speech, Buckley praised director Chloe Zhao for her storytelling capabilities and expressed affection for co-stars Paul Mescal and Emily Watson, saying, “You’re a giant of the heart.” Buckley’s poignant remarks resonated with the audience, amplifying her recognition in the industry.
Television Category Highlights
The Critics Choice Awards also celebrated achievements in television. Notably, Adolescence, a Netflix series following a young boy’s tumultuous experiences, garnered four awards including best actor for Cooper and best supporting actress for Doherty. The series has been acclaimed as one of Netflix’s most-watched titles of 2025. Cooper, now 16, reflected on his transformative year during his acceptance, stating, “Honestly, it’s changed our lives forever.”
Other Notable Mentions
Additional awards included best supporting actress in a drama series for Katherine LaNasa and best movie made for television for Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. The horror film Sinners triumphed in four categories, including best casting.
Context & Previous Events
The Critics Choice Awards, hosted by Chelsea Handler this year in Santa Monica, California, highlight the best in film and television as determined by critics and journalists. The event is often viewed as a precursor to the Oscars, offering insight into potential frontrunners in the awards race.
