Timothée Chalamet’s biggest moment at the Critics Choice Awards was not just about taking home a trophy. It was about gratitude, vulnerability, and love. The actor won Best Actor for his performance in Marty Supreme, and his acceptance speech became one of the ceremony’s most talked-about highlights.
Standing on stage, Chalamet paused before turning his attention to someone seated in the audience. “Thank you to my partner for three years. I love you. I couldn’t do this without you,” he said, visibly emotional. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” The camera cut to Kylie Jenner, who responded by mouthing “I love you,” drawing warm applause across the room.
The win marked Chalamet’s first Critics Choice Award after several nominations, solidifying his status as one of his generation’s most respected performers. In Marty Supreme, Marty Mauser, an ambitious table tennis prodigy inspired by American sports legend Marty Reisman, is played by Marty Supreme. Set in 1950s New York, the film explores obsession, discipline, and the cost of chasing greatness.
Chalamet also acknowledged the strength of the category, which included performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Ethan Hawke, Joel Edgerton, and Wagner Moura. “I’m more nervous than I thought I’d be,” he admitted, smiling, before thanking each of his fellow nominees.
A main portion of Chalamet’s speech was reserved for director and co-writer Josh Safdie, whose vision shaped the film. Chalamet praised the project for its emotional honesty, saying the story presented a flawed man with a relatable dream without telling audiences what to think.
“You trusted the audience,” he said, calling the role a “dream” and crediting the creative freedom that allowed the character to feel deeply human.
Released on Christmas Day, Marty Supreme opened at number three at the North American box office, earning a strong debut despite stiff competition. Its performance, combined with Chalamet’s awards recognition, has positioned the film as both a commercial and critical success this season.
As the ceremony wrapped up, it was clear the night represented more than another accolade for Chalamet. Between professional recognition and a rare public expression of personal support, the moment captured an actor at a meaningful crossroads, celebrating achievement, partnership, and the journey that led him there.
