Chelsea Handler's PICC Line At Critics Choice Awards: Why?
What was the most talked-about accessory at the 2025 Critics' Choice Awards? It wasn't a dazzling necklace or a designer clutch, but a medical device: a PICC line, worn by none other than comedian Chelsea Handler.
The 49-year-old comedian, known for her sharp wit and unfiltered humor, made headlines on Friday night, February 7, as she graced the red carpet of the Critics' Choice Awards, held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. While her hosting duties were once again the focus, it was a conspicuous bandage on her upper arm that initially drew the public's attention. This led to speculation and curiosity, eventually leading to the revelation of a PICC line a peripherally inserted central catheter a medical device typically used for delivering medication or other treatments directly into the bloodstream.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chelsea Joy Handler |
| Date of Birth | February 25, 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Livingston, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Occupation | Comedian, Television Host, Author, Producer, Actress |
| Known For | "Chelsea Lately" (TV show), Books, Stand-up Comedy |
| Education | High School Dropout, studied at UCLA |
| Notable Works | "Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea" (book), "Chelsea Lately" |
| Awards and Recognition | Primetime Emmy Award nominations |
| Relationship | Split from Jo Koy in 2022 |
| Health | Underwent surgery for a shoulder infection, uses PICC line. |
| Social Media |
Handler, who hosted the Critics' Choice Awards for the third consecutive year, didn't shy away from addressing the unusual accessory. During her opening monologue, she playfully poked fun at the situation, incorporating jokes about the bandage and the PICC line into her routine. This lighthearted approach is characteristic of Handler's comedic style, which often involves candidly sharing personal experiences with her audience. I have a PICC line in my arm and no Im not on the substance, she quipped, referencing the movie "The Substance."
The presence of the PICC line, as it turns out, was directly related to a recent health matter. The comedian had previously announced that she had undergone surgery to address a shoulder infection. While the exact details of her treatment remain private, the use of a PICC line often indicates the need for intravenous medication or other forms of specialized medical care. Handler later explained on "Call Her Daddy" that the device was connected to a shoulder infection.
A PICC line, for those unfamiliar, is a long, thin tube inserted into a vein in the arm and threaded through to a larger vein near the heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, it's a crucial tool for delivering medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream, offering a more reliable and often less invasive alternative to repeated needle sticks. The reasons for using a PICC line vary, ranging from antibiotic treatments to chemotherapy, or even the administration of liquid nutrition.
While the specific reason for Handler's PICC line usage remains a personal medical matter, the fact that she chose to address it publicly highlights her ongoing commitment to transparency. This candor has been a hallmark of her career, as she has never shied away from sharing aspects of her life, from her dating experiences to her views on politics and social issues.
Her opening monologue at the Critics' Choice Awards, however, brought to attention the topic of whether or not she would be asked back to host again. Though it is unclear why handler had a picc line in her arm, one of the reasons for the catheter is for receiving liquid nutrition. She candidly discussed why she chose to break up with Jo Koy and shared there were some behaviors they couldn't agree on which she said ultimately ended their relationship.
Handler's ability to blend humor with vulnerability has resonated with audiences throughout her career. Her willingness to openly discuss her health, even while hosting a major awards show, underscores this approach. As she continues to navigate both her professional and personal life, her fans will likely remain connected with her refreshing honesty.
The comedian, who hosted the annual awards show for the third year in a row, sparked health concerns after arriving on the red carpet with a bandage wrapped around her arm on friday night, february 7. Handlers willingness to address the topic head-on, even making it part of her comedic routine, is a testament to her signature style. And while the PICC line was certainly a talking point, it didnt overshadow her ability to command the stage and entertain the audience.
In a world of celebrity and glamour, Chelsea Handler reminds us that even in the face of health challenges, humor and authenticity can still shine. The 2025 Critics' Choice Awards will be remembered not only for the accolades handed out but also for a moment of vulnerability and humor, delivered with the unmistakable touch of Chelsea Handler.
