Chelsea Handler didn’t hold back during her monologue at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, diving straight into one of Hollywood’s biggest controversies—Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s legal battle over It Ends With Us.
Speaking at the February 7 ceremony, Handler acknowledged the unpredictable and often disheartening news cycle, emphasizing the need for distractions. She then sarcastically thanked Lively and Baldoni for delivering just that.
“I want to acknowledge that we’ve been through a lot lately—not just in Los Angeles, but across the country,” Handler began. “Waking up every day, not knowing what news is going to disappoint or horrify us.” Then, with a smirk, she added, “So it’s important to have a distraction in times like these. And that’s why I want to personally thank Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively for giving us one.”
She continued her roast by taking a jab at the film’s troubled aftermath, joking that no matter where people stood in the controversy, everyone could agree on one thing—there wouldn’t be a sequel. The remark drew laughter from the audience.
“I’m grateful. I think we’re all grateful. And I think we’re good. I think everybody in this room, no matter whose side you’re on, can all agree to accept that there’s probably not going to be a sequel,” she quipped.
Her comments come as Lively and Baldoni’s legal feud plays out in the public eye. It all began in December when Lively sued Baldoni for sexual harassment and launching a retaliatory smear campaign—claims he has denied. In January, Baldoni hit back with a $400 million countersuit, accusing Lively of defamation and extortion.
The 30th annual Critics Choice Awards aired live on E! from Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar, with Handler keeping the night lively (pun intended) with her signature sharp humor.