Chelsea Handler announces official return to late night after 8 years

Chelsea Handler announced she is ready to return to late night via Twitter today. The comedian has not appeared on satellite’s late night television line-up since 2014.

On Twitter, Handler wrote: “Regarding my return to late-night; I’m ready.”

“I feel like this is a time… where it’s so important to be represented and to be representing women and to remind people why its so important to be loud and and strong…”

Handler hosted her own late night show on the E! Network, with her run ending in 2014. The comedian then moved to Netflix for a short period, before deciding to focus on political activism.

Now, she believes it’s the right time to return to a more full time hosting role after filling in for ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel this week.

At this moment, it’s difficult to say where Handler could find herself. Whilst it’s possible a network such as TBS or Fox could open a slot for the host, we could see the comedian take over an already established show.

Stephen Colbert’s contract on CBS ends in August this year, however the host has yet to make an announcement on an extension or plans to exit.

The Late Late Show’s James Corden, however, has made an official announcement to leave the network next year.

Chelsea Handler’s return: Viewers react

Viewers are already reacting to Handler’s surprise announcement, with many keen to see the host make a full return.

One user wrote: “You nailed it when filling in for Jimmy Kimmel. You always do. Come on back, sooner the better!!”

Some have shown less enthusiasm, with one user reacting to the news, saying, “She does have some good jokes. But every word she says sounds sarcastic. Irritating.”

It’s clear Handler is able to attract a strong viewer base, making her a leading candidate for any network.