Chelsea Handler Got Some Mixed Reactions With Her Ariana Grande And Ethan Slater Joke At The Critics Choice Awards

Last night, Chelsea Handler hosted the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, and, for the most part, people think she did great.

Except! Things got slightly awkward when Chelsea made a joke about Wicked actor — and Ariana Grande's boyfriend — Ethan Slater.

In her opening monologue, Chelsea shouted out some of the actors who were nominated that evening, including Ari, who received a Best Supporting Actor nod for her role in Wicked. "And now, Ariana has even found love with a munchkin," Chelsea quipped, motioning towards Ariana and Ethan, who were seated together.

After some uncomfortable laughs and silence from the audience, Chelsea laughed nervously and said, "That's good news, everybody!" Still, few people laughed, and according to People, Ariana and Ethan didn't seem thrilled, either.

People found it very awkward.

"the silence is killing me," this person said.

"the crickets omg," commented another.

A third wrote, "Im embarrassed."

While others were left "cringing."

"She's got balls for it though i have to give it to her," someone else shared.

While another defended Chelsea, pointing out that Ethan literally played a munchkin in the movie.

Watch the moment here around the 4:00 minute mark and tell me what you think in the comments. You can also find more on the Critics Choice Awards, including what everyone wore, here.