Originally appeared on E! Online
Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose miss these celeb moments.
The biggest stars in film and television stepped out for the 2025 Critics Choice Awards at Santa Monica’s Baker Hangar on Feb. 7, resulting in several head-turning ensembles on the red carpet and must-see wins during the ceremony. (For all the stars who took home trophies at the Critics Choice Awards, click here.)
And while daring fashion ensembles and heartwarming acceptance speeches certainly gave entertainment fans plenty to talk about, sometimes the moments not shown on TV wound up being the most interesting.
Take Ariana Grande, who shared rare PDA with her boyfriend Ethan Slater inside the venue. While sitting beside each other at a table during the ceremony, the “Thank U, Next” singer leaned in close to her Wicked costar, resting her hand on his waist while he spoke emphatically.
And that’s not the only time behind-the-scenes interactions stole the show. After all, Demi Moore posed for an adorable photo shoot with movie legend Jackie Chan. Meanwhile, Kathy Bates got a cheeky kiss from Skye P. Marshall.
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And those were only a few of the unforgettable celeb run-ins at this year’s Critics Choice Awards, hosted by Chelsea Handler. After all, the entertainment spectacle was packed with show-stopping presenters such as Kaley Cuoco, John Krasinski and Jenny Slate.
Getty Images for Critics Choice
Plus, the award categories for the big night in film and TV were filled with steep competition. Danielle Deadwyler (The Piano Lesson), Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (Nickel Boys), Ariana Grande (Wicked), Margaret Qualley (The Substance), Isabella Rossellini (Conclave) and Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) faced off for Best Supporting Actress. And the casts of Anora, Conclave, Emilia Pérez, Saturday Night, Sing Sing and Wicked all battled it out for Best Acting Ensemble.
Of course, only some of those nominees walked out of the event with trophies. But when it comes to the energy inside the room, Chelsea believes all the celebrities leave as winners.
“Everyone’s there to have a good time, I’m a girl that has a good time,” the comedian told The Hollywood Reporter of the show in January 2024. “So, it’s a good match.”
To see all the candid moments that weren’t shown on TV, keep reading.
A Wickedly Good Pair
Ariana Grande and her boyfriend Ethan Slater only had eyes for each other while enjoying a chat.
A Duo With Substance
Demi Moore and Natasha Lyonne got comfy behind the scenes of film and television’s big night.
Hosting Duties: Handled
Chelsea Handler took a break from her hosting gig to enjoy a refreshing drink and catch up with Rachel Brosnahan.
Holding Space for Friendship
Ariana and her Wicked costar Cynthia Erivo hugged it out.
Gotham’s Favorite Pair
The Penguin costars Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti—who both won big at the event for their performances in the HBO show—shared a sweet embrace.
Moore of This
Demi was all smiles while posing with movie legend Jackie Chan.
When You Know You Know
Margaret Qualley and her husband Jack Antonoff looked closer than ever while enjoying their glamorous date night.
Party Favors: Found
Found star Shanola Hampton showed off her bottle of Champagne.
Far From Misery
Kathy Bates wore a big grin while Skye P. Marshall planted a friendly kiss on her head.
The Perfect Trio
Jeff Goldblum, his wife Emilie Livingston and Liev Schreiber matched in all black.
Spotted: Two of Hollywood’s Finest
Josh Greenbaum and Leighton Meester were the picture of glamour and talent.
Once Upon a Time in Santa Monica
John M. Chu and Margaret certainly served in this photo-op.
A Dazzling Duo: For Good
The Wicked director and Michelle Yeoh—who starred in the movie musical—reunited after he took home the win for Best Director.
Brody Squared
Adam Brody and Adrien Brody don’t just share a last name. When the evening concluded, they also shared being 2025 Critics Choice Award winners.
Fresh Off the Red Carpet
Jimmy O. Yang and Randall Park looked chic while snapping a pic inside the venue.
Friends All Along
Kathryn Hahn and David Harbour buddied up for a photo.
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