Chelsea Handler mentions ‘American Turning’ at Critics’ Choice Awards

Chelsea Handler In her speech, she mentioned “American Turning Point” Critics’ Choice Awards 2026 wrap.

Handler, 50, concluded her hosting duties on Sunday, Jan. 4, with a series of acknowledgments that included recognition of the nonprofit originally founded by the late Handler. Charlie Kirk Now run by his widow, Erica Kirk.

“We want to thank the critics, the staff, E! Network and Turning Point USA,” the comedian said, holding a nearly empty glass before flashing a broad smile. “Good night.”

Turning Point America was founded by the former political activist in 2012 to advocate for conservative politics on high school, college and university campuses. Erika, 37, took over as CEO and chairman of the company in September 2025, just days after Charlie took over assassinated 31 years old.

Erica appeared on Fox News for a full week last month to promote Charlie’s suicide note, Pause in God’s Name: Why Keeping the Sabbath Will Change Your Life. Erika also recently appeared at Turning Point USA 2026 in Phoenix, AZ with a surprise guest nicki minaj Will take the stage for an interview on December 21, 2025.

During Sunday’s Critics’ Choice Awards, Handler, who has been vocal about his political views over the years, also teased Minaj, 43, for her appearance at the 2026 USA Music Festival. Handler said in her opening monologue that she “hasn’t been invited into a black man’s home” since (the movie) sinner,” then noted “The only person who invited me was Nicki Minaj, but who wants to go there? “

Turning Point USA came into the spotlight after Charlie passed away on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Erica’s public appearance attracted a lot of attention.

As Erica continues to mourn her late husband, she opens up about her family’s health to the public response None of Charlie, including her three-year-old daughter, “can’t wait” to go to heaven. Erica said on Fox News on December 8 Hannity She and her daughter had discussed where they thought Charlie would rest today. (Erica and Charlie have two children: a daughter, born in 2022, and a son, born in 2024. Their names have never been publicly confirmed.)

“We’ve come to an understanding, and I try to explain this to her, that dad is still with us, he’s just in a different place, and he’s building a home for us in heaven,” Erica said on the show. “I’ve said it before, but she said, ‘I can’t wait to go.'” I said, “Me too, baby.”

At the Dec. 13 town hall meeting cbs newsErica also detailed her significant struggles in the days following Charlie’s death. “It took me months to get into my bedroom,” Erica detailed, before revealing she was sleep But in her daughter’s bed. “I couldn’t sleep, I was on the phone and started typing (the speech).”