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The curtain has risen on the 2026 awards season, filled with excitement and anticipation as Hollywood’s elite gathered to celebrate cinematic achievements. The month kicked off with the prestigious Palm Springs International Film Festival, where a constellation of stars graced the red carpet, showcasing their talents and styles. Among the honorees were Timothée Chalamet, Michael B. Jordan, and Adam Sandler, each making waves with their respective projects.
As the festivities continued, the annual brunch hosted by Variety at the Parker Palm Springs hotel honored industry giants like Dwayne Johnson, Teyana Taylor, and Guillermo Del Toro. This gathering spotlighted the 10 Directors to Watch, a celebration of exceptional talent making impactful contributions to the film landscape.
Critics Choice Awards and Golden Globes
Back in Los Angeles, the energy surged with the Critics Choice Awards and the glamorous Golden Globes events. The Golden Globes kicked off with a special dinner honoring Sarah Jessica Parker, who received the Carol Burnett Award, while Helen Mirren was celebrated with the esteemed Cecil B. DeMille Award. Both nights were filled with glitz, glamour, and heartfelt tributes to outstanding performances and cinematic excellence.
Star-studded announcements
On January 7, the excitement continued as Connor Storrie from Heated Rivalry and Janelle James from Abbott Elementary took the stage at the SAG-AFTRA offices to announce the nominations for the Actor Awards. This event set the stage for the forthcoming awards, giving fans a glimpse of the nominees and their anticipated performances.
Notable appearances and premieres
The star-studded atmosphere permeated various premieres and events throughout January. For instance, on January 6, the “People We Meet on Vacation” premiere at the Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles showcased the undeniable talent of Tom Blyth. Meanwhile, in New York City, the world premiere of “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” drew attention with appearances by Paul Giamatti and Becky Lynch, marking a significant moment for fans of the iconic franchise.
Another highlight of the month was the Law & Order 25th Anniversary Celebration on January 6, where Mariska Hargitay graced the red carpet, celebrating a legacy that has touched countless viewers over the years. The buzz of these events was palpable, with social media abuzz with reactions and fashion critiques.
Creative Impact Awards
The Creative Impact Awards brunch on January 8 was another captivating event, where stars like Dwayne Johnson, Guillermo del Toro, and Oscar Isaac gathered to honor the contributions of notable creatives in the industry. The atmosphere was filled with admiration as these artists celebrated their fellow visionaries, paving the way for future talents.
Fashion moments and red carpet trends
Fashion played a pivotal role during the January events, with celebrities donning stunning ensembles that captured the essence of Hollywood glamour. At the Critics Choice Awards, Mia Goth turned heads in a classic Dior white slip dress, while Odessa A’zion dazzled in a sparkling Ott Dubai silver outfit complete with dramatic cape sleeves. The red carpet became a showcase for trendsetting styles, with stars like Audrey Nuna opting for an avant-garde Marc Jacobs creation.
As the awards season marches on, the seamless blend of talent, creativity, and fashion continues to captivate audiences. From heartfelt speeches to breathtaking appearances, January 2026 has set a remarkable tone for the upcoming ceremonies. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and fashion highlights as the awards season unfolds.