Netflix has signed Chelsea Handler to a “ground-breaking” deal which will see the comedian front a stand up special, four docu-comedy specials and an all-new talk show.
The talk show will mark Netflix’s first foray into this area, as their original programming efforts have been almost entirely focused on scripted programming. Said show, which will debut in 2016 in all territories where Netflix has a presence, will feature an updated format that still encompasses Chelsea’s unfiltered opinions on topical entertainment and cultural issues, as well as her signature guest interviews.
The stand up special which has been commissioned under this deal is based on her sold-out tour, “Uganda Be Kidding Me Live” and will preimere globally on Netflix on October 10th. The four docu-specials, slated to air in 2015, will see Handler attempting on a variety of subjects ranging from NASCAR to politics and from Silicon Valley to the NBA draft.
Both the talk show and the stand up and docu-ccomedy specials will be produced by Chelsea Handler, Tom Brunelle and Brad Wollack through their production company Borderline Amazing. “If I was going to continue working in this industry, I knew I had to do something outside the box to keep myself interested”, said Chelsea Handler. “I wanted to sit with the cool kids at lunch so I approached Netflix to make sure they were as cool as I thought they were, and when I confirmed my suspicions, like with any other future lover, I made my move. I’m more excited than I’ve been in a while, and the team at Netflix is the most forward-thinking, alert group I’ve sat down with in ages. No offense to the Shahs Of Sunset.”
While Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer of Netflix, added: “The internet has disrupted many of the conventions of traditional television and together with Chelsea Handler, Netflix is looking forward to reimagining the late night talk show for the on-demand generation, starting with the late night part… Chelsea has built a huge following on tour, on nightly TV and through her best-selling books, and we can’t wait to introduce her breathtakingly honest and irreverent voice to our global membership”.
