Washington [US]: The Critics’ Choice Association (CCA) has officially announced that the 31st annual Critics’ Choice Awards will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, making it the first major nationally televised event of the upcoming awards season.
The ceremony will take place at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica and will be broadcast live on E! and USA Network from 7 to 10 PM ET/PT. This marks the second consecutive year of the CCA’s partnership with the two networks, expanding its reach and setting the tone for the season.
In a strategic shift, the Golden Globes—which have traditionally led the awards calendar—have moved to January 11, allowing the Critics’ Choice Awards to grab the spotlight as the season opener.
CCA CEO Joey Berlin, as quoted by Deadline, stated, “The Critics Choice Association is excited to kick off awards season as the first major televised show of 2026.” The ceremony will once again honour achievements in film, television, and streaming, continuing its combined format.
Adding to the excitement, the Palm Springs Film Festival will host its Awards Gala on January 3, just one day prior, shaping the first weekend of 2026 as a pivotal moment in awards buzz.
TV nominations for the Critics’ Choice Awards will be announced on December 4, followed by film nominations on December 5. The show will be executive produced by Bob Bain Productions and Berlin Entertainment, promising a star-studded event full of standout speeches and influential moments.