Chelsea Handler, the brazenly funny blonde girl from Jersey, became a hit with fellow comediennes, guest stars and viewers alike. Handler headlined her own show on the E! network for seven years. She is unapologetic and would playfully bash her on network. She never took herself too seriously, even though she is a business and comedic powerhouse.
Handler has bestselling books under her belt, including “My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One Night Stands,” “Are you there Vodka, it’s Chelsea” and “Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang.”
Handler decided to leave her long-running show on the entertainment network for a completely new platform beloved by college students: Netflix. She will host a talk show on the popular movie and television streaming platform. Netlfix is known for its compelling original series and Handler will have much more artistic control in this new phase of her career.
Her show, “Chelsea Lately,” began with a roundtable discussion with comedians and turned to an interview segment with celebrities. Who can forget her assistant Chuy? Handler would not hold back in her interviews, creating a much more genuine and funny atmosphere.
Following in the sparklingly unapologetic path blazed by Joan Rivers, Handler became a comedic star on the same network where Rivers worked until her unfortunate death. Comedians entertain vast crowds and seem to be at ease and natural on screen. However, it is hard to make it in Hollywood, especially for women comedians. Handler is a dynamo in her own right, yet it is interesting to point out the similarities and legacy of the late Joan Rivers. Both may come across as crass, but are passionate and caring stars.
The success of Netflix series and buzz in pop culture only adds to the anticipation of Handler’s debut. Handler is witty and smart and seems to have outgrown her nightly E! Show and is ready to take more risks.
Although I will miss tuning into her show, (E! news is a guilty pleasure), I believe that her new program has the potential to reach even more viewers, especially those with negative views of the channel.
It is empowering to see a confident woman saying what she wants on TV. No matter what people may think, she is an accomplished writer and television personality.
Handler has come a long way from her beginnings in Livingston, N.J. She has toured all over to promote her books. Handler will be whisked away to Australia and New Zealand for her live comedy show, “Uganda Be Kidding Me,” performing in grand places such as the Sydney Opera House.
Viewers will need to wait until 2016 to hear Handler’s comedy on Netflix, as she is currently finishing up a book tour and working on filming segments.
This could be the future for television stars looking to stay relevant in the competitive industry. Netflix has renewed original series including “Orange is the New Black” and “House of Cards.” The women of Orange is the New Black swept the Emmy awards and are breaking down barriers. In addition, Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright star in the acclaimed political drama. Upcoming original series are in line for this year, including “Daredevil” staring Deborah Ann Woll of “True Blood” and Rosario Dawson of “Rent.”
After a long week of classes, students love to unwind and watch their favorite shows on Netflix. Actors are realizing the potential of the platform and artistic freedom it presents. The shift will be a positive one for Handler’s career. I cannot wait to sit back and watch the comedy that I grew up watching on E!, only a little edgier.
