Chelsea Handler will be ending her talk show 'Chelsea' after just two seasons

In a statement on her social media pages, she wrote: "Like so many across the country, the past presidential election and the countless events that have unfolded since have galvanised me.

"From the national level down to the grassroots, it's clear our decisions at the ballot box next year will mark a defining moment for our nation.

"For these reasons, I've decided not to return for another season of 'Chelsea', and instead devote as much time as I can to becoming a more knowledgeable and engaged citizen and to focus on projects that have significance to me.

"My goal is to be better informed, raise my voice and participate in a more meaningful way.

"I want to travel the country and visit areas and people I don't know enough about, speak at colleges and listen to students, and gain a better understanding of our political divide.

"I have joined forces with EMILY's List (an American political action committee which aims to help elect pro-choice Democratic female candidates to office) to elect more women to public office, register people to vote, and campaign for candidates who are fighting for women's rights.

"I'm excited to share that I will continue my partnership with Netflix, working together on documentary where I'll engage with people I don't talk with enough - people of different ethnicities, religions and political philosophies.

"Netflix could not be more understanding, and I'm grateful for their continued support. New episodes of 'Chelsea' will continue to stream weekly until the end of this year."

'Chelsea' began in 2016 as a three-episode-per-week series and despite mixed reviews it was commissioned for a second season as a weekly one-hour programme which saw her travel the world and speak to guests.