Paul Downs and Megan Stalter Channel Timothée and Kylie at Critics Choice Awards
In a delightful display of celebrity homage, actors Paul W. Downs and Megan Stalter transformed into Hollywood’s favorite couple at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards. The comedic duo arrived at Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar on January 4th wearing meticulous recreations of the bright orange Chrome Hearts ensembles that Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner had worn just weeks earlier at the Los Angeles premiere of “Marty Supreme.” Downs, 43, embraced the Chalamet look with an orange dress shirt adorned with silver buttons, a leather blazer, and orange boots—even going so far as to carry a black Chrome Hearts ping-pong paddle slung over his shoulder. Stalter, 35, perfectly mirrored Jenner’s provocative style in a matching orange ensemble featuring a bra top with strategic cutouts, a knee-high slit, and the signature accessories: a large silver cross necklace and delicate bracelet. The playful tribute demonstrated not only their keen eye for detail but also their willingness to have fun with the often serious atmosphere of awards season.
While their fashion statement certainly turned heads, the evening held professional significance for Downs, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of Jimmy LuSaque Jr. in the acclaimed series “Hacks.” Though the award ultimately went to Ike Barinholtz for his role in “The Studio” (which also edged out “Hacks” for Best Comedy Series), the recognition highlighted Downs’ growing reputation as a comedic talent. The “Hacks” team had additional reasons to celebrate as Jean Smart secured the award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series, continuing the show’s tradition of award-season success. Downs and Stalter’s presence at the ceremony reflected their rising profiles in Hollywood’s comedy landscape, with Stalter herself having gained significant recognition for her scene-stealing performances in recent years.
The actual inspiration for their outfits—Chalamet and Jenner—were also present at the awards ceremony, though they opted not to walk the red carpet together. Once inside, photographers captured the couple in a tender moment, with Chalamet wrapping his arm around Jenner. The 28-year-old beauty mogul dazzled in a crystal-embellished dress featuring a low-cut neckline that revealed lace details of her bra, accessorized with diamond stud earrings and styled with voluminous, bouncy curls. Her makeup was characteristically flawless, featuring long lashes, blushed cheeks, and a soft pink lip. Chalamet, nominated for Best Actor for his performance in “Marty Supreme,” looked dapper in a striped blazer, white dress shirt, and colorful tie, demonstrating the effortless style that has made him a fashion icon among his generation of actors.
The real-life romance between Chalamet and Jenner began in 2023, blossoming into one of Hollywood’s most watched relationships. Since then, Jenner has been a consistent presence of support at Chalamet’s professional milestones, accompanying him to prestigious events including the 2024 and 2025 Golden Globe Awards as well as the 2025 Oscars. Their relationship represents a fascinating intersection of different entertainment worlds—Chalamet emerging from independent cinema into mainstream success, while Jenner transitioned from reality television royalty to business mogul and fashion influence. Their contrasting backgrounds have only added to public fascination with their partnership, making them prime candidates for the kind of good-natured imitation that Downs and Stalter delivered at the Critics Choice Awards.
The couple’s official red carpet debut came in May 2025 at the David di Donatello Awards in Rome, Italy—often considered the Italian equivalent of the Academy Awards. For this milestone moment, Jenner selected a show-stopping black Schiaparelli dress that featured intricate embroidery, a plunging scoop neckline, fitted bodice, and delicate train. The sophisticated design was complemented by an open back, creating a dramatic silhouette that emphasized her famous figure. Keeping the focus on the statement dress, Jenner chose minimal accessories—just gold dangling earrings and a black clutch with gold detailing. Her beauty look was equally refined, with her brunette hair pulled back into a sleek updo and makeup that enhanced rather than overshadowed her natural features: soft mascara, lined lips, rosy cheeks, and subtle bronze eyeshadow.
Standing beside her at their debut, Chalamet projected his trademark blend of traditional elegance with contemporary edge in a black double-breasted blazer. The actor added personal touches with a white floral pin on his lapel, paired with a dark dress shirt and straight-leg pants. The couple’s complementary yet individually distinctive styles at their first official appearance together set the tone for what has become one of Hollywood’s most visually compelling pairings. Their influence on fashion has only grown since then, inspiring not just fans but fellow celebrities like Downs and Stalter to pay homage to their iconic looks. As the 2026 awards season continues, the Critics Choice Awards moment stands as a testament to how Chalamet and Jenner have transcended mere celebrity couple status to become cultural touchstones whose style and presence inspire both admiration and affectionate imitation across Hollywood.
