The glitz and glamour of Hollywood's awards season is set to shine brightly with the upcoming Critics Choice Awards 2026. For film and television enthusiasts across India, the ceremony promises a night of celebration, recognizing the finest achievements in entertainment from the past year. This guide provides everything you need to know about how to catch the live broadcast, the major contenders vying for trophies, and the celebrities expected to grace the red carpet.
When and Where to Watch the Ceremony Live in India
The prestigious Critics Choice Awards 2026 will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026. For viewers in India, timing is crucial as the event will air live from the United States. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).
This translates to an early morning watch for Indian audiences. The live broadcast will start at 5:30 AM Indian Standard Time (IST) on Monday, January 12, 2026. Fans will need to set their alarms to catch the action as it happens.
The primary broadcaster for the event in India will be Vh1 India. The channel is known for its coverage of international music and awards shows, making it the perfect destination for this live telecast. Viewers can tune in to Vh1 on their cable or satellite TV provider. Additionally, the ceremony will likely be available for streaming on Voot, the digital platform associated with the Viacom18 network, which owns Vh1. This provides a convenient option for those who prefer to watch on their smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs.
A Look at the Major Nominations and Contenders
The nominations for the Critics Choice Awards 2026 reflect a year of powerful storytelling and exceptional performances across both film and television. The awards are known for being a strong predictor of Oscar success, making the nominations list particularly noteworthy.
In the film categories, the competition is intense. The list of nominees for Best Picture includes cinematic powerhouses that have dominated critical discourse. Leading the pack with the highest number of nominations is the epic historical drama "The Brutalist". It has secured nods in key categories such as Best Picture, Best Director for its visionary filmmaker, and acting honors for its stellar cast.
Other notable films in contention are the heartwarming musical "The Supremes At Earl's All-You-Can-Eat" and the gripping political thriller "The Order". The Best Actor race features transformative performances, with actors like Colman Domingo and Andrew Scott receiving recognition for their challenging roles. Similarly, the Best Actress category showcases a range of talent, with Carey Mulligan and Greta Lee among the acclaimed performers nominated.
On the television front, the awards will honor the best of both drama and comedy. The final season of the beloved comedy series "Reservation Dogs" has earned a nomination for Best Comedy Series. The drama category sees intense competition with shows like "The Crown" and "Succession" in the running for top honors, highlighting their cultural impact and critical acclaim.
Star-Studded Guest List and What to Expect
The Critics Choice Awards are not just about the trophies; they are a major social event in Hollywood. The 2026 ceremony is expected to attract a dazzling array of A-list celebrities from the world of film and television. The guest list typically includes all the major nominees, ensuring a red carpet filled with glamour.
While the full, official list of attendees is often confirmed closer to the event date, audiences can expect to see the nominated stars from films like "The Brutalist" and "The Supremes At Earl's All-You-Can-Eat" in attendance. Television nominees from popular series are also sure to make an appearance. Furthermore, the ceremony will be hosted by a prominent comedic talent, adding an element of humor and entertainment to the proceedings. The combination of anticipated wins, emotional speeches, and fashionable red-carpet moments makes this a must-watch event for any entertainment fan in India.
In conclusion, the Critics Choice Awards 2026 is poised to be a spectacular kickoff to the awards season. With a convenient, if early, viewing option on Vh1 and Voot in India, fans have front-row access to all the excitement. From the tight races in major nomination categories to the parade of Hollywood's biggest stars, the ceremony on January 12th promises to deliver an unforgettable celebration of cinematic and television excellence.
