What Happened to Chelsea Handler? Career and Life Update

Chelsea Handler wears manyhats—and a savvy businesswoman is just one of them. She’s also built a career asa stand-up comedian, actress, writer, producer, and a former late-night talk show host. And as we heard in the Chelsea Handler podcast with Amanda Hirsch, that level of success isn’t luck; it’s a combination of ambition, confidence, and strategy.

But… where is Chelsea Handler now? She’s on magazine covers, in headlines, and gracing us with her presence in episodes like “Chelsea Handler Is More Confident Than Ever” from Not Skinny But Not Fat. But that’s not all she’s doing. Chelsea’s also writing books, working on Netflix specials, and touring the U.S. She’s a busy, badass gal!

Ever sat around and wondered, “What happened to Chelsea Handler?” Trust us, you’re not alone. (Super guilty, actually.) That’s why today, we’re breaking down exactly who Chelsea Handler is, what she’s famous for, and what she’s doing now. Get ready to go from mildly intrigued to majorly invested.

What Happened to Chelsea Handler? Career and Life Update

Chelsea Handler’s career has changed a lot since her 2007 late-night comedy talk show, Chelsea Lately. And this isn’t a bad thing by anymeans! Actually, if you’ve listened to “Blame Our Saturn Return” from Transform, you KNOW how crucial transformative change is.

That said, Chelsea’s no longer dominating a single role as she did a decade ago. She’s active in comedy, writing, award hosting, and plenty of other soul-filling creative ventures. So just because you don’t see her in her iconic late-night format doesn’t mean she isn’t out here trailblazing in SO many other ways.

Which, actually, is exactly what we’re here to talk about! Consider this your go-to Chelsea Handler guide. We’re exploring who she is, what she’s known for, how she became famous, and what she’s spending her time doing these days.

Who Is Chelsea Handler?

Chelsea Handler is an American comedian, TV host, best-selling author, and producer who first gained recognition from her hit cable talk show, Chelsea Lately on E!. And this was no easy feat. Chelsea Lately was one of the few female late-night talk shows—and she did it for over SEVEN years.

Aside from hosting her own late-night show, Chelsea’s also published seven New York Times bestsellers. Yes, you read that right, SEVEN. Of course, she’s also toured multiple times, hosted award shows, released comedy specials, launched a Vegas residency, prioritized creative collaborations, and kept up her podcast. No big deal!

Known for her sharp wit, candid storytelling, and often controversial humor, Chelsea Handler’s career isn’t defined by one single moment. Instead, her career spans across multiple domains. Multi-platform entertainer isn’t just a pretty addition to her resume—it’s her trailblazing strategy that’s kept her a household name for decades.

What Is Chelsea Handler Famous For?

Chelsea Lately

From 2007 to 2014, Chelsea Handler hosted Chelsea Lately on E!. This American late-night comedy talk show featured a daily monologue, guest interviews, and a roundtable segment with other comedians like Jo Koy, Kevin Hart, and Ali Wong. Winning a Teen Choice Award in 2009, the show was a hit, to say the least. 

Chelsea had done other notable things before her TV show. She moved to LA at 19 to transition into stand-up comedy and was on the hidden-camera show, Girls Behaving Badly, for a bit. But Chelsea Lately was her big break! It ran for over 7 years, racking up over 1,000 episodes. 

In fact, Handler told Amanda in her episode, “That’s when that show blew up. And then my life was like, oh, I’m a famous person now.” Little did she know what was to come!

New York Times Best-Selling Author

Chances are, you knew Chelsea Handler’s a stand-up comedian. But did you also know that she’s an author, too? A successful one, at that. Chelsea published her debut memoir, My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands, in 2005. Remember, this was before Chelsea Lately! even hit screens. The fact that it became a NYT bestseller speaks volumes about her talent.

She didn’t stop there, though. Chelsea Handler has since written plenty of other books, including: 

• Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea (2008): An autobiography about Chelsea’s life experiences, family, and relationships all told through her witty, authentic style.
• Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang (2010): A collection of personal essays discussing childhood memories, dysfunctional family moments, and her dating experiences.
• Lies That Chelsea Handler Told Me (2011): A collection of essays written by Chelsea’s friends, family, and coworkers discussing all of the crazy, made-up stories she recited over the years.
• Uganda Be Kidding Me (2014): Ever wondered what traveling with Chelsea Handler is like? This novel covers her misadventures across the globe, from African safaris to German hospitals. 
• Life Will Be the Death of Me… and You Too! (2019): Super deep one here. This comedic memoir discusses Chelsea’s path of self-discovery, therapy, and political awakening.

And, of course, we can’t forget about Chelsea’s newest book: I’ll Have What She’s Having,published in 2025. This New York Times bestseller is a collection of personal essays covering Chelsea’s life story and her journey to becoming the strong, confident woman she is today. You can get a little sneak preview in “Mom, I Am a Rich Man ft. Chelsea Handler” from We Met At Acme.

Netflix Comedy Specials

You thought Chelsea Handler was gonna stop at late-night TV and bestselling novels? Think again. In 2014, Chelsea released her very first Netflix comedy special, Uganda Be Kidding Me Live, based on her bestselling book. Naturally, it was a total hit. Then came Chelsea Does, a 4-part Netflix docuseries exploring 4 different topics: marriage, Silicon Valley, racism, and drugs. 

Produced by and starring Chelsea Handler, Chelsea Does features direct, authentic conversations and, of course, her candid, witty takes. Next came Chelsea, a 2016 Netflix talk show created as a late-night, 3-episode-per-week series with a blend of celebrity interviews, roundtable discussions, and on-location documentary-style segments… Sound familiar?

In 2020, Chelsea released Evolution, an HBO Max stand-up comedy special discussing personal growth, self-awareness, and therapy. This was HUGE, as it marked Chelsea’s return to stand-up after a 6-year break. And that just got the ball rolling again.

July 2022 marked the release of Revolution, a Netflix stand-up comedy special regarding Chelsea’s life choices, dating experiences, and personal growth. Naturally, it was defined by controversial hot takes, social commentary, and lots of self-reflection. And, finally, Chelsea graced us with The Feeling, a 2025 Netflix stand-up comedy special that explores masturbation and self-discovery. Like… reaaalll self-discovery—if you’re pickin’ up what we’re putting down.

Wanna pregame her most recent release? Listen to “Dr. Emily Morse on Prioritizing Pleasure and Overcoming Sexual Shame” from Treated with Dr. Sara.

Hosting the Critics’ Choice Awards (Year After Year)

Chelsea Handler began hosting the yearly Critics’ Choice Awards in 2023, the 28th annual show. Vibes were high, laughs were loud, and views were up. Significantly. Come 2024, when Chelsea hosted for a second time, viewership increased by 50% in the 18–49 demographic. This wasn’t a one-time thing, either. 

The 2026 Critics Choice Awards more than doubled inviewership compared to 2025. More specifically, views went up by 125%. (Just know we typed those numbers in caps.) That’s HUUUGE—and not just because it’s earned Chelsea a consistent spot as the Critics’ Choice Awards host. It’s a total testament to her drive, passion, and ability to reinvent herself through so many different eras. 

Craving a similar Chelsea Handler-style level of success? Tune into “Stop Telling Yourself This Lie About Success ft. Tricia Lee” from She’s So Lucky. 

Las Vegas Residency

From September 2024–April 2025, Chelsea led a Las Vegas residency at The Chelsea Theater inside The Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino. If you don’t know what a Vegas residency is, it’s an exclusive setting where artists perform in the same location for weeks, months, or years. A lot of artists use this as an opportunity to take a break from traditional touring—but not Chelsea.

She ran her residency alongside her “Chelsea Handler Live” tour. Talk about dedication! This was a big deal beyond career commitment, though. Chelsea’s residency led her to become the first female comedian to have a residency at The Chelsea. And at Dear Media, where we’re committed to empowering female voices in male-dominated industries? We’ve been cheering her on from the very start. 

Interested in learning more about DM’s female-focused brand? Read Forbes’ article about Dear Media! 

What Does Chelsea Handler Do Now?

So, now that you know how Chelsea Handler paved her path—what’s she doing now? Long story short… a lot. But we’re not keeping it short and sweet. Here’s everything Chelsea Handler’s up to, planning, and continuing to amaze the world with:

Comedy Tour

If you thought Chelsea Handler everhad plans of slowing down, reconsider. As of 2026, she’s headlining her “High and Mighty Tour,” a stand-up comedy tour through the U.S and Canada. In it, she talks all things modern life, relationships, and, of course, pop culture. And she tackles each topic with her signature style: bold, witty, and totally unfiltered.

Want an up-close-and-personal take on life on tour? Tune into comedian Heather McMahan’s episode, “Parisian Butter Bun,” from Absolutely Not!

Awards Hosting

We told you earlier howmuch the Critics’ Choice Awards viewership skyrocketed after Chelsea Handler began hosting. So, naturally, she returned to host in January 2026 for the fourth consecutive year. With Chelsea’s fast-paced monologue, quick-witted jokes, and heartfelt tributes, it was the most-viewed Critics’ Choice Awards since 2022.

Speaking of hosting, Amanda Hirsch interviewed anothericonic comedian who gave us allll the insight about hosting The Oscars. Listen to “AMY SCHUMER!!!” from Not Skinny But Not Fat!

Comedy Specials

We don’t have to tell you that a LOT of Chelsea’s humor relies on unapologetic authenticity. She’s blunt, she’s high-energy, and she’s satire—which is why we love her! And her 2025 Netflix special, The Feeling, depicts this perfectly. Further establishing her continued presence in streaming comedy, the special focuses on, well, the feeling. AKA, premature sexual curiosity and self-discovery. 

While it’s grounded in humor, Chelsea also revealed a level of vulnerability we don’t often see! It’s hilariously refreshing, to say the least.

Las Vegas Residency

We could rave about how incredible it is that Chelsea Handler made history as the first female comedian to hold a residency at The Chelsea. See, there we go again! But her residency wasn’t extended due to history—people just enjoy it that much. Originally announced in 2024, this Grammy-nominated comedian added additional dates due to popular demand.

Want more on what a Vegas residency looks like? Tune into the Holly Madison podcast episode with The Bossticks! Totally different vibe, but still SUCH an interesting perspective.

Continued Influencer as a Writer

After authoring six New York Times bestsellers, Chelsea didn’t stop there. In 2025, she released I’ll Have What She’s Having: My Misadventures in Starting Over. An essay collection and personal memoir, the book explores self-discovery, empowerment, and joy.

More specifically, it highlights topics like envy being a huge part of her personal growth journey. Which, actually, Chelsea discusses in her interview with Amanda Hirsch. She said: “I tried really hard too at a certain point in my life, you know? So to be patient and also to be patient with yourself. It’s totally normal to have jealousy.” You heard it here first, folks: not every woman is your enemy. 

In addition to reading Chelsea’s latest book, we have a super insightful episode about the power of female empowerment. Tune into “Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, & Female Friendships with Nikki Reed” from Transform!

Podcasting

If you haven’t tuned into Dear Chelsea, Chelsea Handler’s podcast, you’re SERIOUSLY missing out. Generally releasing episodes weekly, Chelsea tackles listener questions and offers candid, hilarious, and no-BS advice. Plus, she even frequently features celebrity guests and experts! It’s yet another active aspect of her incredibly impressive media portfolio. 

Entrepreneurship

If there’s one thing Chelsea Handler knows how to do, it’s hustle. She said it herself about her vodka lemonade line, which she launched after partnering with women-led Owl’s Brew! In fact, she said that it’s super nostalgic to her childhood experiences of running a spiked lemonade stand. Yes, this is absolutely something she claimed to ACTUALLY do. Hilarious even as an 8-year-old.

Aside from vodka-infused lemonade, Chelsea constantly engages in creative collaborations. She’s partnered with cannabis-based companies, frozen yogurt brands, and founded “Borderline Amazing Productions.” She also has a history of buying and selling luxury real estate for profit.

Feeling inspired? Pop into our post, “Podcasts About Entrepreneurship,” to get a hefty dose of expert-led advice!

Chelsea Handler Career Timeline

• 2001–2005: Landed early acting roles
• 2005: Published her first NYT bestseller, My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands
• 2006: Starred in The Chelsea Handler Show on E!
• 2007: Launches Chelsea Lately on E!
• 2008: Published her second NYT bestseller, Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea
• March 2010: Published her third NYT bestseller, Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang
• March 2010: Went on “Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang” tour
• September 2010: Hosted 2010 MTV Video Music Awards
• 2011: Published her fourth NYT bestseller, Lies That Chelsea Handler Told Me
• March 2014: Released her fifth NYT bestseller, Uganda Be Kidding Me
• June 2014: Announced a deal with Netflix to produce stand-up comedy specials
• August 2014: Ended Chelsea Lately
• October 2014: Started “Uganda Be Kidding Me: Live” comedy tour
• January 2016: Released four-part Netflix docuseries, Chelsea Does
• May 2016: Premiered the Netflix talk show Chelsea
• October 2017: Stepped away from Chelsea
• October 2017: Supported women running for office
• April 2019: Published her sixth NYT bestseller, Life Will Be the Death of Me… and You Too!
• April 2019: Went on “Life Will Be the Death of Me: Chelsea Handler’s Sit-Down Comedy Tour” 
• September 2019: Released Netflix documentary titled Hello, Privilege, It’s Me, Chelsea
• October 2020: Released stand-up special, Chelsea Handler: Evolution, on HBO Max
• May 2021: Began podcast, Dear Chelsea
• September 2021: Launched her “Vaccinated and Horny Tour,” marking her return to stand-up
• December 2022: Released Netflix comedy special, Chelsea Handler: Revolution 
• January 2023: Hosted the 28th annual Critics’ Choice Awards
• February 2023: Hosted The Daily Show for one week
• January 2024: Second consecutive year hosting the 29th Annual Critics’ Choice Awards
• September 2024: Began “Chelsea at The Chelsea” Vegas residency
• February 2025: Published her seventh NYT bestseller, I’ll Have What She’s Having
• February 2026: Embarking on “High and Mighty Tour”

Chelsea Handler isn’t just a comedian—she’s a cultural force constantly redefining herself.

You began this post knowing Chelsea Handler as a stand-up comedian, and you’re leaving it in total awe. We know, we know—we’re amazed, too. While she began on E! all those years ago, she was never destined to be a one-hit wonder. Over two decades, iconic moments, and hard times, Handler is here to prove one thing: legacy isn’t luck. It’s longevity. 

Craving more updates about your favorite celebs? Head to the Dear Media blog, where we cover all the juicy details you scour the internet to find. And, of course, we offer love life advice, health and wellness tips, and general pop culture updates. What can we say? In honor of Chelsea Handler, we’re multifaceted.  

And, of course, don’t miss out on tuning into our amazing lineup of Dear Media podcast hosts! Who else do you think is interviewing your iconic favorites, getting all those hot-hitting details we write about? You won’t want to miss a thing—trust us.