Chelsea Girl

Chelsea Handler strikes again.

by Natalie Hope McDonald

Late-night host Chelsea Handler stands up for what she believes in: sex, booze and senior citizens. As the host of E! Network's late-night talk show Chelsea Lately, comedian and best-selling author Chelsea Handler, 34, doesn't pull punches with frank discussions about celebrity culture riddled with often embarrassing personal anecdotes. Her latest book, Are You There Vodka? It's Me Chelsea (Simon), spent 29 weeks on The New York Times best-seller list. With a possible sitcom in her future and a third book coming next year, the potty-mouth comedienne comes to Philadelphia for the first time, and she promises nothing's off limits.

City Paper: You have a pretty great gig on E! hosting your own late-night television show. So what made you decide to hit the road?

Chelsea Handler: I've been doing standup since I was 21, so I've always done it. I'm always on the road, but this is my first time in Philly.

CP: Is there a connection between sex and standup?

CH: No, but there's a connection between me, sex and standup.

CP: Any recent news or gossip that may end up in your act?

CH: I focus more on myself and my family and friends in my act. I talk enough about celebrities on my show. I like to spread the love.

CP: Who gets your vote as the craziest celebrity this year?

CH: There is the top tier of messes, Amy Winehouse, Lindsay Lohan, Britney, but I think we're all ready for a fresh crop. There are always new ones on the horizon.

CP: How come we don't see you falling out of limos sans your panties?

CH: Because I'm an advanced drinker. I drink responsibly. I don't yell or slur or fall down in public.

CP: Your show got renewed for another season. Does this mean your "little nugget" Chuy's staying on?

CH: Chuy will always be with me, although we got him an understudy just in case he gets deported.

CP:For those who don't know, Chuy may be small but he plays a big role on Chelsea Lately. Who else would you like to see on your show this year?

CH: Clay Aiken.

CP: You've talked pretty publicly about your own personal experiences. Any regrets?

CH: Just giving birth to Chuy naturally. I wish I had a Caesarean.

CP: My 70-year-old aunt watches your show every single night. Did you realize you have a big senior following?

CH: Seniors love me. Kathy Griffin has a gay following. I have seniors.

Chelsea Handler | Sat., March 7, 8 p.m., $39.50-$42.50, Tower Theater, 19 S. 69th St., Upper Darby, 877-598-8497, livenation.com