Chelsea Handler shared a heartfelt tribute to the late Rob and Michele Reiner at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards on Sunday (January 4).
The 50-year-old comedian and host of the annual awards show concluded her opening monologue by remembering the late filmmaker and his wife, who were tragically murdered last month.
After calling Adam Sandler the “nicest guy in Hollywood,” she humorously corrected herself, stating he was actually the second nicest, behind Rob.
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“Actually, you’re the second nicest guy in Hollywood, because everyone in this room knows that the nicest guy in Hollywood was Rob Reiner,” Chelsea shared. “Anyone who ever spent time with Rob Reiner knows that the minute you met him, he felt like an old friend. When you were in a conversation with him, he was present, focused, funny, and he would ask you tons of questions, whether you were discussing politics, film, or the latest beauty trends — he was all in. After I sent him a text thanking him for dinner a few months ago, he texted me back and said, ‘We had so much fun with you last night. Thanks for explaining so much about plastic surgery. It was very edifying.’”
“Rob and Michele were tireless in their efforts for many important causes, all stemming from one basic idea: decency and that we should all look out for each other,” the host continued. “I think we can all agree that we definitely need more of that. So, let’s use tonight as a reminder of that decency and as a reminder of everything Rob and Michele represented and fought so hard for.”
Earlier in her monologue, Chelsea took a playful jab at Leonardo DiCaprio. See what she said!
If you missed it, check out all the major celebs who hit the red carpet at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards.
