Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downs Steal the Spotlight by Recreating Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet’s Iconic Red Carpet Look at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards

Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downs turned heads at the 31st Critics Choice Awards by recreating one of the most talked-about celebrity fashion moments of the year: Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet’s coordinated orange ensembles from the Marty Supreme premiere. The playful homage quickly became a highlight of the ceremony, which took place Sunday night in Santa Monica and celebrated the best in film and television.

The Critics Choice Awards were already buzzing with excitement following the official opening, but Marty Supreme soon emerged as one of the evening’s focal points. Inspired by the life of legendary professional table tennis player Marty Reisman, the film premiered in theaters on Christmas Day and stars Timothée Chalamet in the lead role. The cast also includes Kevin O’Leary as Milton Rockwell, a wealthy businessman married to Kay Stone, portrayed by Gwyneth Paltrow.

While the film has earned widespread praise from critics for its performances and unconventional storytelling, it was Chalamet and Jenner’s appearance at the film’s premiere that initially captured public attention. The couple stepped onto the red carpet wearing custom, head-to-toe orange Chrome Hearts outfits, a bold fashion statement that quickly went viral and dominated entertainment headlines. According to Variety and The Hollywood Reporter, the coordinated look was widely praised for blending high fashion with a sense of playful confidence, further cementing the pair’s status as one of Hollywood’s most closely watched couples.

Just weeks later, Stalter and Downs — best known for their roles on the acclaimed HBO comedy Hacks — decided to recreate the now-iconic look for the Critics Choice Awards red carpet on January 5. Their appearance delighted fans and viewers alike, with many praising the duo for their sense of humor and attention to detail. Social media reactions were swift and enthusiastic. One fan wrote on X, “No one is funnier than this cast — absolutely iconic,” while another commented, “Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downs dressing up as Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner at the #CriticsChoiceAwards is perfection.” Others admitted they didn’t even know who the actors were but still loved the moment.

According to People, the outfits worn by Stalter and Downs were designed by Erica D. Schwartz and were clearly inspired by the original Chrome Hearts looks worn by Jenner and Chalamet on December 8. Downs mirrored Chalamet’s ensemble with a bright orange leather suit, paired with an orange silk shirt and matching boots. Stalter, meanwhile, wore a striking outfit reminiscent of Jenner’s original look, further emphasizing the duo’s commitment to recreating the moment as accurately — and humorously — as possible.

This was far from Stalter’s first memorable red carpet appearance. At the 2025 Emmy Awards in September, the 35-year-old actress surprised audiences by opting for an intentionally casual look, pairing jeans with a simple white T-shirt. Speaking to Variety at the time, Stalter explained her fashion philosophy: “I think people need to bring jeans back to the red carpet. They were big in the ’90s. There are no rules — you’re allowed to do whatever you want.”

Beyond fashion, Marty Supreme also enjoyed major success during the ceremony itself. Timothée Chalamet took home his first-ever Critics Choice Award for Best Actor, marking a significant milestone in his career. During his acceptance speech, the Wonka star paid heartfelt tribute to Kylie Jenner, referring to her as his “partner of three years.” “Thank you for the foundation we’ve built together. I love you. I couldn’t do this without you,” he said, a moment that quickly sparked widespread discussion online.

Fans were particularly quick to note Chalamet’s confirmation of how long the couple has been together. Social media reactions ranged from surprise to speculation, with some fans joking that an engagement might be on the horizon. As Reuters and Associated Press reported, the couple’s relationship has remained relatively private despite intense public interest, making moments like Chalamet’s speech all the more notable.

Chalamet also used his speech to acknowledge fellow nominees, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Joel Edgerton, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, and Wagner Moura. He thanked Marty Supreme director Josh Safdie for telling a story about “a deeply flawed man with a relatable dream” without moralizing for the audience. “I think we should all be telling stories like that,” Chalamet said, concluding with, “Thank you for this dream.”

Despite some controversy surrounding the event — including renewed criticism of the modest food served to attendees, a topic joked about onstage by Abbott Elementary star Janelle James — the night remained memorable for its mix of celebration, humor, and viral moments. For many viewers, Stalter and Downs’ playful fashion tribute perfectly captured the spirit of the evening: irreverent, self-aware, and undeniably entertaining.

Sources added:
People Magazine; Variety; The Hollywood Reporter; Reuters; Associated Press