Handler’s Take on the Lively-Baldoni Feud
Handler began her set by acknowledging the ongoing legal feud between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, which has been making headlines since December 2024. Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and causing her emotional distress during the filming of their movie It Ends With Us.
A Playful Dig at Ariana Grande
Handler didn’t stop there. She also took aim at Ariana Grande and her relationship with co-star Ethan Slater, who is 32. Grande, 31, has been in the spotlight for her romance with Slater, particularly due to the timeline of their relationship, which followed Slater’s divorce. Handler joked, “It is so nice to see some of our most beloved child stars all grown up and thriving. Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, and Ariana Grande are all nominated tonight. And now Ariana has even found love with a munchkin.”While Handler’s joke was intended to be lighthearted, it drew mixed reactions from the audience. The camera panted to Grande and Slater during the joke, and they appeared “less than amused,” according to reports. Handler’s humor, while sharp, also touched on the sensitive nature of public scrutiny that the couple has faced since they began dating.
Reactions and Public Scrutiny
The humor surrounding Grande’s relationship has been met with backlash online. Following the announcement of her romance with Slater, many fans scrutinized the timeline of their relationship, questioning the nature of their connection and Slater’s divorce. In an October 2024 interview with GQ, Slater addressed the challenges of dealing with public criticism, stating, “There were a lot of big changes in private lives that were really happening, so it’s really hard to see people who don’t know anything about what’s happening commenting on it and speculating, and then getting things wrong about the people you love.”Grande has also been vocal in defending Slater from critics, emphasizing his character. In September 2024, she praised him, saying, “There’s no one on this earth with a better heart. And that is something that no bulls–t tabloid can rewrite in real life.” However, Handler’s roast at the Critics Choice Awards added another layer to the public dialogue surrounding their relationship.
Handler’s Comedic Style
Handler’s monologue was characteristic of her comedic approach—bold, irreverent, and unapologetic. By addressing the serious issues of the day through humor, she managed to lighten the mood in a room filled with industry heavyweights. Her ability to blend commentary on celebrity culture with current events is a hallmark of her style, allowing her to resonate with audiences who appreciate both comedy and social critique.Handler’s remarks highlighted the importance of humor as a coping mechanism in turbulent times. Amidst the disheartening news cycles, her jokes provided a welcome respite, allowing attendees to share a laugh while reflecting on the absurdity of celebrity drama.
Conclusion
Chelsea Handler’s roast of Justin Baldoni, Blake Lively, and Ariana Grande at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards was a notable moment that showcased her comedic prowess. By addressing the ongoing conflicts in Hollywood through humor, Handler not only entertained the audience but also offered a critique of the public’s obsession with celebrity relationships and the drama that often surrounds them.While Handler’s jokes elicited laughter from some, they also reminded viewers of the complexities and pressures faced by public figures in the limelight. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Handler’s ability to navigate sensitive topics with humor remains a vital part of her charm and appeal. Her performance at the Critics Choice Awards served as a reminder that, even in the midst of chaos, laughter can be a powerful tool for connection and reflection.
