Leighton Meester & Adam Brody Shine at Critics Choice Awards 2026
Leighton Meester Supports Adam Brody at Critics Choice Awards

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards in Santa Monica saw a stylish show of support from Leighton Meester for her nominated husband, Adam Brody. The couple, married for nearly 12 years, graced the red carpet on Sunday evening, joining the ranks of the night's best-dressed celebrities.

A Lavender Vision and a Pinstriped Partner

Meester, 39, made a striking appearance in a lavender purple gown by Caroline Herrera. The dress featured a strapless, corset silhouette and was adorned with intricate embroidery over a semi-sheer fabric. She completed the look with delicate diamond Chopard jewellery, old Hollywood-inspired waves in her honey blonde hair, and a bold coral red lip.

Brody, 46, nominated for Best Actor in a Comedy Series for Netflix's Nobody Wants This, opted for a different colour palette. The star sported a grey pinstriped suit, paired with a cream satin button-down shirt and a tie in deep red and royal blue tones.

A Lasting Hollywood Romance

The pair first met in 2011 while filming The Oranges and tied the knot in February 2014. Known for being fiercely private, they are parents to two children: a daughter, Arlo Day, 10, and a five-year-old son whose name they have kept out of the public eye.

This year's appearance held special significance, coming shortly after the couple lost their home in the devastating Palisades fire last year. It also marks Brody's second consecutive nomination in the same category for his role in the hit comedy series; he took home the award for the show's first season in 2025.

The Critics Choice Awards Kick Off 2026's Awards Season

With the Golden Globes not airing until later in January, the 31st Critics Choice Awards, hosted once again by Chelsea Handler, served as the first major televised ceremony of the year. The event is renowned for its predictive power regarding the Oscars.

Leading the nominations this year was Ryan Coogler's Sinners with an impressive 17 nods. In the comedy categories, Brody competes alongside stars like Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, and Jean Smart.

The ceremony celebrated the best in film and television, with winners including The Naked Gun for Best Comedy and Adolescence for Best Limited Series. The night underscored both professional achievements and personal resilience for the Brody-Meester family.