Chelsea Handler’s Humble Beginnings: The Night She Bombed at Just for Laughs
In an exclusive sneak peek from her upcoming book, “I’ll Have What She’s Having,” comedian Chelsea Handler candidly reflects on a pivotal moment early in her career—the time she bombed spectacularly at the prestigious Just for Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival. This experience, which left her feeling devastated and questioning her future in comedy, ultimately became a catalyst for her growth and resilience.
Handler, who is not only a celebrated stand-up comedian but also a six-time New York Times bestselling author, had been building her reputation for five years in the Los Angeles comedy scene before she got her big break at Just for Laughs. Prior to her performance, she felt a surge of excitement as industry buzz surrounded her showcase, promising that influential figures would be in the audience. With a meticulously rehearsed ten-minute set, Handler approached the stage ready to shine—only to face a crushing defeat.
“I bombed badly. Very badly,” she writes, describing the mortification that descended upon her as her timing faltered, and her jokes fell flat. That night, as she retreated to her hotel room, Hollywood star Zach Galifianakis offered her a dose of uncomfortable truth: “You’re going to want to be alone for a while.” It was a disheartening moment, but also a period of intense self-reflection.
Despite initial despair, Handler’s resilience shone through. The following night, she performed again to better reviews, although the lack of industry presence dampened the high she had hoped to achieve. Reflecting on this leg of her journey, Handler’s story resonates as a potent reminder that failure is often intertwined with success in the realm of entertainment.
Through her experience, Handler not only laid the groundwork for a comedic career that would flourish—ultimately making her an industry staple—but also showcased the power of perseverance. As noted by industry experts, every artist experiences setbacks, making Handler’s narrative a relatable and inspiring saga for anyone pursuing their dreams.
Handler’s new book, set for release on her 50th birthday in February, promises a potent blend of her characteristic humor and vulnerability, drawing parallels to the iconic “When Harry Met Sally” scene from which its title is inspired, aiming to show how triumph often rises from the ashes of failure.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, Deadline, Entertainment Weekly
