The Critics Choice Association (CCA) has announced that actress and comedian Janelle James will host the 32nd annual Critics Choice Awards on January 3, 2027. The ceremony will take place at The Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, and will air live on E! and USA Network. This will be the third year the show is broadcast on E! and the second on USA Network, continuing its format of honoring achievements in film, television, and streaming entertainment.

CCA CEO Joey Berlin praised James as an ideal choice to lead the event, highlighting her standout comedic style and perspective. Val Boreland, President of Entertainment at VERSANT, echoed that excitement, noting the awards’ role in celebrating excellence across cinematic and televised work. The nominations will be revealed on December 4, 2026, by E! hosts Erin Lim Rhodes and Will Marfuggi, with the announcement accessible on multiple platforms including E!, USA Network, and social media.

Janelle James is best recognized for her acclaimed role as Ava Coleman on ABC’s Emmy-nominated series Abbott Elementary, earning five consecutive Emmy nominations and winning the 2026 Critics Choice Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She will also release her first hour-long stand-up special entitled Janelle James: How Romantic on Netflix in November 2026. James’ diverse credits include writing and acting on shows like Showtime’s Black Monday, Apple TV+’s Central Park, and she is currently developing a Hulu comedy called Rock City.

The Critics Choice Awards, founded in 1995, are produced by Bob Bain Productions and Berlin Entertainment and are known for recognizing top achievements in film and television while often predicting Academy Award nominations. The event also highlights underrepresented communities across several celebration programs. Represented legally by Dan Black of Greenberg Traurig, LLP, the 2027 ceremony will reflect the ongoing evolution and inclusivity of the entertainment industry.