If there were any doubt about Chelsea Handler’s standing in show business or in late-night TV, then her live one-hour finale episode of Chelsea Lately on E! should put that to rest, too.
Dozens of stand-up comedians who have benefitted from her nightly panels came back to pay homage to her in stereotyped groups, not even given the chance to speak again, but just happy for one more TV credit with her. Miley Cyrus sang “It’s Over.” 50 Cent, an ex-boyfriend of Handler’s, also performed a song. Ellen DeGeneres showed up in the showers with a naked Handler in a pre-taped bit. And Handler’s A-list female friends — Sandra Bullock, Jen Aniston and Mary McCormack — wore name tags as they staged an intervention with Handler. Oh, they’d take her directly to “Netflix” if that’s what she needs.
Handler’s next official step is to record and release multiple specials and documentaries with Netflix, starting with her latest stand-up special, “Uganda Be Kidding Me: Live” later this fall.
But first, one more night on E!
Here are the video highlights: