Ep 1. The 43rd Annual People's Choice Awards

The 43rd Annual People's Choice Awards is the opening episode of the 40th season of the People's Choice Awards. This episode is all about honoring and celebrating the best in movies, music, TV, and pop culture as voted by the fans. The awards were presented in more than 40 categories, including favorite movie, TV show, song, and social media star.

The show is hosted by Joel McHale, who kicks things off with a hilarious monologue. He jokes about the year that was, and the challenges that came with it. He also acknowledges the remote nature of the show, with fans and celebrity nominees tuning in from their homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Joel keeps things light and upbeat, while also making sure to give props to the essential workers who have kept people safe and healthy.

Throughout the episode, presenters like Sarah Hyland, Tyler Perry, and Tiffany Haddish help keep the show running smoothly. They introduce the nominees and present the awards to the winners. Some categories are predictable, with acclaimed movies like Black Panther and A Star is Born taking home prizes. Others are more surprising, with smaller movies and TV shows winning over the more mainstream options.

One of the highlights of the show is the musical performances. The episode features multiple artists taking the stage to perform their hit songs. Demi Lovato delivers an emotional rendition of her song "Anyone", while Megan Thee Stallion and Lil Wayne team up for a high-energy performance of "Body". Other performers include Justin Bieber, Chloe x Halle, and Blake Shelton.

Another big moment comes when Jennifer Lopez is honored with the People's Icon Award. The superstar is celebrated for her decades-long career in music, movies, and TV. She delivers an inspiring speech, thanking her fans for their support and praising the importance of representation in the entertainment industry. She also shares a funny anecdote about her early days in Hollywood, proving that even someone as successful as J.Lo had to work hard to get to where she is today.

The episode wraps up with the biggest award of the night: the People's Choice Award for Favorite Movie. This is the award that fans have been waiting for all night, as people cheer for their favorite blockbusters. In the end, the winner is announced: Avengers: Endgame. The cast and crew gather together on a virtual call to accept the award, with Robert Downey Jr. leading the way with a heartfelt speech. The moment is a fitting end to a night of celebrating the best in pop culture.

Overall, The 43rd Annual People's Choice Awards is a fun, energetic tribute to the entertainment that got us through a difficult year. It showcases a wide array of popular artists and works, and is sure to spark plenty of conversation and debate among fans. And, as always, the show puts the power in the hands of the people, who get to vote for the winners and make their voices heard.