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Howie Mandel
Howie Mandel
Howie Mandel
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Howard Michael Mandel (born November 29, 1955)[1] is a Canadian comedian, television personality, actor, and producer. Mandel is known for voicing Gizmo in the 1984 film Gremlins and the 1990 sequel Gremlins 2: The New Batch; playing rowdy emergency room resident Dr. Wayne Fiscus on the NBC medical drama St. Elsewhere; and creating and starring in the Fox children's cartoon Bobby's World. He has also been a judge on NBC's America's Got Talent since 2010, and Citytv's Canada's Got Talent since 2022. He hosted the American NBC and later CNBC game show Deal or No Deal, as well as the show's daytime and Canadian-English counterparts.

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Mandel was born on November 29, 1955, in Toronto. He grew up in the Bathurst Manor neighbourhood of the city.[2] His ancestors were Romanian and Polish Jews. Mandel is a distant cousin of Israeli violinist Itzhak Perlman.[3] His father was a lighting manufacturer and a real estate magnate. Mandel attended William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute,[4] where he was expelled for impersonating a school official and hiring a construction company to build an addition to the school.[5] Afterwards, Mandel worked as a carpet salesman.[6] He was a stand-up comedian at Yuk Yuk's in Toronto, and by September 1978 he had a week-long booking as a featured act, which was billed as "a wild and crazy borderline psychotic".[7]

On a trip to Los Angeles, Mandel performed a set at The Comedy Store, which resulted in his being hired as a regular performer. A producer for the syndicated comedy game show Make Me Laugh saw him there, and booked Mandel for several appearances during the show's run in 1979 and 1980. He was booked to open for David Letterman at shows in the summer of 1979.[8] CBC-TV's head of variety programming saw his performance in October 1979 and immediately signed him for a TV special. In 1980, he won the lead role in the Canadian movie Gas, co-starring Susan Anspach and Donald Sutherland. Mandel was one of the first "VeeJays" to appear on Nickelodeon's music video series PopClips.[9]

Career

[edit]

Film and television

[edit]
Mandel at the 39th Emmy Awards in 1987

Mandel came to national attention in the United States during a six-year run on St. Elsewhere, starting in 1982 and playing the role of Dr. Wayne Fiscus, opposite Ed Flanders and Norman Lloyd. He also appeared on a week's worth of episodes of the short-lived NBC game show Match Game-Hollywood Squares Hour in March 1984. While working as Dr. Fiscus and continuing to work as a comedian, Mandel also worked in films, including providing the voice of Gizmo in the 1984 hit Gremlins and its 1990 sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch.[10] In 1985, Mandel made a cameo in the Michael J. Fox directed short "The Iceman Hummeth", which was subsequently broadcast on Late Night with David Letterman in November 1985. In 1986, he starred in A Fine Mess alongside Ted Danson. He performed his stand-up comedy act in several cities (the Watusi Tour), which was followed by his Watusi music video in 1987. For the first two seasons of Muppet Babies, he voiced Bunsen Honeydew, Animal, and Skeeter. He starred alongside Amy Steel in the 1987 comedy film Walk Like a Man. He was also "Maurice" in the 1989 movie Little Monsters. In 1990, he starred in the short-lived sitcom Good Grief on Fox. He was also the creator and executive producer of the Emmy-nominated children's animated series Bobby's World (1990–1998) to which he supplied the voices of the title character and his father. Bobby's World ran for seven seasons on Fox and was later syndicated.

In 1992, his self-titled comedy show Howie was aired weekly with multiple guest stars including Gilbert Gottfried, Little Richard, and Lita Ford as the in-house band guitarist. His character, Bobby, made a regular appearance on the show.[11] In 1994, Mandel voiced the lead character, Little Howie, of the video game Tuneland. He starred in the sketch comedy series Howie Mandel's Sunny Skies in 1995 on Showtime. Mandel appeared in the 1995 Clint Black music video "Summer's Comin' ". He played the lead role of the professor in the short-lived TV series The Amazing Live Sea Monkeys, and he guest-starred on a 1996 episode of the ABC TV series Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman as DC Comics supervillain Mister Mxyzptlk. In 1998, he hosted his syndicated talk show, The Howie Mandel Show, which was cancelled after one season. From 1999 to 2000, he played Jason in the film Apocalypse III: Tribulation, was the voice of Jack in the movie The Tangerine Bear in 2000, and 2002 he played the Sand Man in the movie Hansel and Gretel. In 2006, he appeared as himself as a guest host in a parody of Deal or No Deal in the show-within-a-show of the TV series Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. In 2007, he guest-starred as himself in an episode of NBC's Medium and made a dream cameo of himself on Deal or No Deal. In that episode, he booted the nighttime drama's protagonist off for "cheating" since in the show, he is a psychic medium and appeared to "know" the contents of the cases. Mandel plays his alter ego, Phil Skorjanc, in most of his comedy shows, which are a fan favourite. Bobby also made a cameo appearance in a February 2007 episode of Deal or No Deal. On a special two-hour Christmas episode, first aired on December 25, 2007, Mandel delivered one line with Bobby's voice, as requested by the contestant.

Mandel's signature stunt as a stand-up comedian (besides his Bobby alter ego) was stretching a latex glove over his head, inflating it with his nostrils, and filling it until it suddenly propelled itself off his head. That trick also lent itself to the title and cover photo of his comedy album Fits Like a Glove (1986). He eventually gave up the routine under doctor's orders after being diagnosed with a perforated sinus. However, in a cameo role as himself on My Name Is Earl, he did the routine. He guest-starred in two episodes of Monk ("Mr. Monk Joins a Cult" and "Mr. Monk's 100th Case").

Additional appearances

[edit]

Mandel is known for his frequent appearances as a comedian and for his hidden camera segments on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has appeared in many television commercials for Boston Pizza as their hired spokesperson. In April 2004, he appeared as number 82 on Comedy Central's list of the 100 greatest stand-up comedians of all time. In October 2005, he was named to be the host of the American version of Deal or No Deal, which debuted on December 19, 2005, on NBC, and became a popular program in early 2006. Mandel also hosts Deal or No Deal Canada; originating from Toronto, Deal or No Deal Canada debuted in January 2007 on Global,[12] which made him one of the few game show hosts (Weakest Link's Anne Robinson, The Chair's John McEnroe, Pyramid's Donny Osmond, The Singing Bee's Joey Fatone, and Minute to Win It's Darren McMullen being others) to host both a domestic and an international version of the same game show. Mandel joins Alex Trebek, Jim Perry, and Geoff Edwards on the list of game show hosts who emceed one game show simultaneously in Canada and the United States.

In 2007, Mandel made an appearance in an episode of Sesame Street's 38th season. Also in 2007, he was parodied on the show as Howie Eats well, the Muppet host of Sesame's game show segment "Meal or No Meal". Mandel has hosted the DVD game version of Deal or No Deal, "Fact or Crap Beat Da Bomb", and "Would You Rather" for Imagination Games. Mandel had a cameo appearance as himself on the NBC show My Name Is Earl in the episode where Earl's roommates robbed an Indian casino at which Mandel was performing. While stealing money, they also kidnapped Mandel. In the episode, Mandel performed his old routine of inflating a rubber glove over his head with his nostrils.

Mandel is a notable alumnus of Beth David B'nai Israel Beth Am's Hebrew School in Toronto, as well as three other Toronto high schools.[13] He performs a variety/comedy act at the MGM Grand Hotel-Casino in Las Vegas. Beginning in 2007, Mandel became a spokesperson for Internet retailer buy.com. He is sometimes featured in a section called "What's Shakin'?" with Mandel. On September 8, 2008, Mandel began hosting a five-day-a-week syndicated daytime version of Deal or No Deal, with a top prize of $500,000. On January 9, 2009, Mandel's reality show Howie Do It premiered on NBC.

On March 31, 2011, Mandel premiered a flash-mob show on Fox called Mobbed. Originally a presentation pilot, the ratings after American Idol prompted Fox to pick up the show for eight to ten episodes.[14] On October 18, 2012, Mandel appeared on The Big Bang Theory as himself in the season 6 episode "The Re-Entry Minimization". On November 30, 2012, he hosted the NASCAR Sprint Cup Awards Ceremony. On December 10, 2012, his six-night special game show Take It All premiered.

He appeared in one episode of the animated series Fugget About It as the voice of FBI Agent Rick Chickmagnet in 2013.[15] From 2013 to 2014, Mandel executive-produced the TBS hidden-camera show Deal with It.[16][17] He also regularly made appearances and co-hosted the show along with main host Theo Von. In 2023, Mandel competed in season nine of The Masked Singer as "Rock Lobster". He was eliminated on "ABBA Night" alongside Debbie Gibson as "Night Owl".

Deal or No Deal

[edit]

In 2003, while Mandel was deciding whether or not to quit show business, the executive producers at NBC asked him to host the show, but he declined many times. They then mailed him a tape of the overseas version and he finally accepted.[citation needed] In 2007, he hosted a five-episode run of the Canadian-English version Deal or No Deal Canada. The show then went to daytime with Mandel remaining as host, although Arsenio Hall was originally intended to host the show. In a January 2009 interview on Anytime with Bob Kushell, Mandel expressed mild, jovial frustration over how some of his contestants hold out during the game show, even though the grand prize is many times what they would make in a year.[18]

On March 12, 2018, it was announced that Mandel would host the 2018 CNBC revival of the game show and also become an executive producer.[19] The show premiered on December 3, 2018. Mandel is one of three game show hosts to host the same game show in two different countries, the others being Donny Osmond for Pyramid in the United States and the United Kingdom and Anne Robinson for The Weakest Link in the United States and the United Kingdom.

In 2024, Mandel was credited as an executive producer on the reality game show spin-off of Deal or No Deal titled Deal or No Deal Island. In the finale of the first season, it was revealed that he is the secretive banker who made offers to the contestants over the course of the game. He did not return to be the banker for Season 2, as it was confirmed that the banker for that season would be a woman.[20] The banker was later revealed to be celebrity and former Deal or No Deal briefcase model Chrissy Teigen.[21]

Got Talent

[edit]

In January 2010, it was announced that Mandel would replace David Hasselhoff as one of the judges on NBC's America's Got Talent after Hasselhoff announced that he was leaving to work on a new television series.[22] Out of all judges on the show, Mandel currently has the longest tenure than any other judge or host, spanning sixteen consecutive seasons (season 5–present).

In October 2021, it was announced that Mandel would be a judge on the second season of Canada's Got Talent, which aired in 2022.[23]

Howie Mandel Does Stuff

[edit]

Since February 2021, Mandel has hosted the Howie Mandel Does Stuff Podcast with his daughter, Jackelyn Shultz, as co-host. According to the Apple Podcasts preview: "Together, these two make prank calls, discuss pop culture, interview interesting people, say weird things, chat with listeners, get deep..."[24]

Bullsh*t: The Game Show

[edit]

On April 27, 2022, Netflix released the 10-episode debut season of Bullsh*t: The Game Show with Mandel as the host of the program. It was Mandel's first game show since the cancellation of the Deal or No Deal revival on CNBC in 2019. In this game show contestants have a chance to win up to $1,000,000 by answering a series of trivia questions but have to also be able to convince ("bullsh_") a group of prospective challengers that the answer they give is right, even if it's not. (The contestant is shown whether or not their answer is correct as soon as they choose it.) After explaining their reasoning, the judges will vote on whether they think the contestant is "bullshitting" (lying), or telling the truth. At a certain time after they are done convincing the judges, Mandel will ask the contestant if their answer is correct, or if they were "bullshitting". If the contestant's answer is correct (or if it's incorrect, but they successfully convinced at least one judge that they were telling the truth), they win and move on to the question. If they lie and none of the three judges buy it, they are removed from the game. The next contestant is the judge who most accurately guessed whether or not the contestant was truthful during each question.[25]

The Price Is Right Tonight

[edit]

On June 3, 2025, it was announced that Howie Mandel would be hosting a Canadian spin-off of The Price Is Right, entitled The Price is Right Tonight.[26]

Other businesses

[edit]

Mandel is an avid tech futurist and has invested in many innovative startups. In 2021, he invested in MetaMedia's MagicScreen which plans interactive experiences for movie theatres.[27] In 2022, he became an investor and frequent user of Proto Hologram technology.[28] He uses it both for his own appearances and to promote the startup such as when he beamed into JFK Airport Terminal 4 to surprise travellers.[29]

Personal life

[edit]
Hand prints of Mandel in front of Hollywood Hills Amphitheater at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park

Mandel has been married to Terry Mandel (née Soil) since 1980. They have three children.[30]

On September 4, 2008, Mandel received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Comedy Central listed him as No. 82 on their list of the 100 greatest stand-up comedians of all time.[31] Mandel received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in Toronto. The induction ceremony was held on September 12, 2009.[32]

In October 2008, Mandel revealed that he has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on the morning talk show Live with Regis and Kelly, adding that he is currently working to raise adult ADHD awareness among the general public. On January 12, 2009, Mandel was reportedly sent to St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto suffering from chest pains and what was reported as a minor heart attack. According to various news reports, he was experiencing an irregular heartbeat, but the reports were later revealed as inaccurate. He was later discharged.[33] Mandel has written and published an in-depth autobiography that details his life with OCD, ADHD, and comedy called Here's the Deal: Don't Touch Me.

Mandel is a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team.[34][35] He is colorblind[36] and a germaphobe. He contracted COVID-19 at the 2022 Kids' Choice Awards, which caused him to miss parts of the third, eighth, and tenth episodes, and the entire seventh episode of the seventeenth season of America's Got Talent. The lockdown during the epidemic also led to physical and mental health struggles,[37] including drug and substance abuse.[38] Mandel lives in the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles.[39]

Obsessive compulsive disorder

[edit]
Mandel on Children's Mental Health Awareness Day, 2007

Mandel has spoken publicly about having OCD, which can take many forms, including mysophobia.[40][41] Mandel's anxiety affects him to the point that he does not shake hands with anyone, including enthusiastic contestants on Deal or No Deal unless he is wearing latex gloves. Instead of shaking contestants' hands when they offer them, Mandel often opts to exchange fist bumps, put his hands on contestants' shoulders, or give an occasional hug. He once kissed a female contestant on the show for good luck despite his disorder. He now takes medicine to control his condition and even pokes fun at himself for it. On March 24, 2006, he revealed on The Howard Stern Show that his shaved head, which first appeared in 1999, is not related to natural hair loss but OCD. He stated that the lack of hair makes him feel cleaner.[42] In the back yard of Mandel's house is a second, smaller house that he had built specifically to live in solitude when a family member is sick.[43] During his appearance on Mad TV, Mandel and cast member Bobby Lee made fun of Mandel's condition. Mandel also confronted his germophobia in Season 4, Episode 1 of the Comedy Central series This Is Not Happening. The show aired on February 3, 2018.[44]

Mandel has reported a pivotal childhood experience during a family vacation in Florida that may have caused the manifestation of his mysophobia. During this trip, a sandfly laid its eggs in him, leading to the development of larvae that could be seen moving around just beneath the surface of his skin. The removal process was accompanied by considerable discomfort, with a dermatologist using liquid nitrogen to eliminate some of the larvae, and the rest being scrubbed out by his mother at home. The ordeal of discovering organisms growing beneath his skin left a profound impact on Mandel, who was only seven or eight years old at the time. Mandel says that recalling the event often evokes the sensation of organisms attempting to crawl underneath his skin.[45][46]

While guest-hosting on Live with Regis and Kelly in 2005, Mandel had an altercation in which his hand sanitizer was seized by guest Rob Schneider, who condescendingly teased Mandel, stating he needed to 'get over' his phobia. Host Kelly Ripa admonished Schneider on-air, while also obtaining hand sanitizer for Mandel from an audience member.[47] In September 2007, Mandel interviewed former NFL running back Marshall Faulk on NFL Network. Faulk asked him to shake hands, but Mandel refused, noting he would rather have the fist tap, as he does with Deal or No Deal contestants. Seconds later, Faulk subjected him to a "sneak attack" and shook his right hand. Mandel screamed and walked away from Faulk. He then washed his hands several times.[48] On a guest appearance on Free Radio, Mandel explained that not only is he afraid of public bathrooms, but he is unable to use any bathroom other than his own.[49]

In another America's Got Talent season 5 incident, Dan Sperry, a contestant on the YouTube quarterfinal depicted in episodes 21 and 22, dropped some dental floss that he had run through his neck as part of a magic act. He dropped the floss in Mandel's vicinity, prompting him to get up and run to the other side of the judges' table.[50] Just before Sperry's next performance in the semifinals, Mandel admitted that it was "the most horrified" he'd been on the show and that his therapist "loves [Dan Sperry]" because there had been two extra sessions that week.[episode needed] During the premiere of season 6, juggler Frank Olivier grabbed Mandel's head to balance himself during a unicycle act. Despite receiving a buzzer from Mandel, Olivier moved on to the next round. Mandel refused to give Olivier any feedback during the judge's voting process.[51]

During AGT's 10th-season premiere, contestant Chris Jones[52] directly utilized Mandel's fear of germs as the subject of his hypnotism act. Under the post-hypnotic suggestion that Jones and the other judges were wearing latex gloves, Mandel shook the bare hands of all involved, which elicited shouts of amazement. After viewing the video of the act, Mandel said that he was "upset" and "somewhat betrayed" by the act, but his therapist subsequently said it was a good thing.[53] Jones progressed to the Judge's Cuts where he was eliminated from the competition.

Mandel commented in 2011 that he has struggled with the condition since childhood but did not seek help until he was an adult:

I don't remember a time when I didn't feel there was an issue, but I wasn't diagnosed until adulthood. I've always felt a little bit different, and I always knew I wasn't as comfortable with life as everybody else seemed to be, but I didn't know what I could do about it. When I was a kid, I didn't know anybody who went to a psychiatrist. There was always a stigma attached to mental health issues. I think there still is. But now I'm taking care of myself.[54]

Since May 2022, Mandel has partnered with NOCD, a mental healthcare company focused on increasing access to evidence-based treatment for OCD and related conditions.[55]

Philanthropy

[edit]

Mandel started his charitable foundation called Breakout the Masks, which helps provide personal protective equipment to healthcare workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.[56] He is also involved in Bell's Let's Talk Day initiatives to help people struggling with mental health issues.[57] And he has raised money for the American Cancer Society[58] and Trillium Health Partners for their mental health program.[59]

Use of name in scams

[edit]

In 2025, scammers started using Mandel's name to promote an investment scam via social media, using fictitious "news articles" claiming that Mandel had been arrested following an interview.[60]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Film
Year Title Role Notes
1981 Gas Matt Lloyd
1983 The Funny Farm Larry Pound
1984 Gremlins Gizmo Voice
1985 Where Did I Come From? Narrator Video short
1986 A Fine Mess Dennis Powell
1987 Walk Like a Man Robert "Bobo" Shand
1989 Little Monsters Maurice
1990 Gremlins 2: The New Batch Gizmo Voice
1994 Magic Kid 2 Moe
2000 Tribulation Jason Quincy
The Tangerine Bear Jack Voice
Spin Cycle Cody
2002 Hansel and Gretel The Sandman
2004 Pinocchio 3000 Spencer T. Penguin Voice
2005 The Aristocrats Himself Documentary
2007 Room Service Joe Burns Short film
2012 Committed Himself Documentary Director
Noah Inwar Voice
2013 When Jews Were Funny Himself Documentary
2014 Gone South: How Canada Invented Hollywood
2015 Being Canadian
2017 Where Have You Gone, Lou DiMaggio?
Gilbert
Killing Hasselhoff Uncredited
On My Way Out: The Secret Life of Nani and Popi N/a Documentary Executive producer
2019 I Am Richard Pryor Himself Documentary
Christmas Magic Video short
2020 Howie Mandel: But, Enough About Me Documentary
Original title: The Howie Mandel Project
John Pinette: I Go Now Documentary
2022 Chop & Steele

Television

[edit]
Television
Year Title Role Notes
1982–1988 St. Elsewhere Dr. Wayne Fiscus 137 episodes
1984 Match Game/Hollywood Squares Hour Himself Panelist
School TV movie
The Princess Who Had Never Laughed Weinerhead Waldo
Welcome to the Fun Zone N/a TV movie
Writer
1984–1985 Muppet Babies Skeeter/Animal/Bunsen Voice
26 Episodes
1985 Howie Mandel: Live from Carnegie Mall Himself Executive producer
Writer
Little Muppet Monsters Episode 1: "In the Beginning"
1985–1986 Faerie Tale Theatre Wienerhead Waldo/Guest Interviewee 2 Episodes
1986 The Young Comedians All-Star Reunion Himself Writer - Uncredited
David Letterman's 2nd Annual Holiday Film Festival Locker Room Guy Segment: "The Iceman Hummeth"
Uncredited
1987 Howie from Maui Himself TV movie
Executive producer
Writer
1990 Carol & Company Steve Season 1 episode 7: "Myna and the Messenger"
Mother Goose Rock 'n' Rhyme Humpty Dumpty TV movie
1990–1991 Good Grief Ernie Lapidus Main
13 Episodes
1990–1998 Bobby's World Self/Bobby Generic/Howard Generic 81 episodes
Executive producer
1991 Howie and Rose Howie Newman TV pilot
1992 Howie Various Executive producer
The Amazing Live Sea Monkeys The Professor 11 episodes
Executive producer
1993 David Copperfield Mealy (Dog) TV movie
Voice
1994 In Search of Dr. Seuss Sam-I-Am Voice
Television movie
1995 Homicide: Life on the Street Interior Decorator Season 3 episode 9: "Every Mother's Son"
Harrison Bergeron Charlie TV movie[61]
The Ben Stiller Show Himself Uncredited
Episode 13: "ZooTV at Night"
Howie Mandel's Sunny Skies Director
Executive producer (2 episodes)
Host (2 episodes)
Writer (1 episode)
Highjacker N/a TV short
Executive producer
Hello There N/a
Brunch N/a
1996 Bless This House Stuart Wyler Episode 16: "Natural Born Parents"
Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman Mr. Mxyzptlk Season 4 episode 11: "Twas the Night Before Mxymas"
1997 The Outer Limits Karl Durand Season 3 episode 2: "Second Thoughts"
1998 The Nanny Howie Mandel Season 6 episode 8: "Making Whoopi"
1998–1999 The Howie Mandel Show Host Executive producer
Writer
Segment director (1 episode)
1999 Sunset Beach "Jerry Show" Announcer Episode #1.560
Jackie's Back! Himself TV movie
2000 Timothy Tweedle the First Christmas Elf Comet
2001 Spinning Out of Control Marty Levinne
2002–2003 Hollywood Squares Himself Center square
25 episodes
2003 Untitled Howie Mandel Project TV movie
2004 Crown Heights Rabbi
2005 Hidden Howie: The Private Life of a Public Nuisance Himself Executive producer
Punk'd N/a Executive producer - Season 6 episode 3: "David Boreanaz, Kristin Cavallari & Terrell Owens"
2005–2019 Deal or No Deal Host
2006 Las Vegas Himself Season 3 episode 16: "Coyote Ugly"
MADtv Season 12 episode 2
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip Episode 10: "B-12"
The Great American Christmas Narrator TV movie
The Great Polar Bear Adventure Pupa Voice
TV movie
2007 Medium Himself Season 3 episode 21: "Heads Will Roll"
WWE Raw Season 15 episode 9
Deal or No Deal Canada Host
The Bronx Bunny Show Himself Season 1 episode 6
Sesame Street Season 38 episode 9: "Sleeping Grouchy"
My Name Is Earl Season 3 episode 4: "The Frank Factor"
2008 Free Radio Season 1 episode 3: "The New Intern"
Monk Ralph Roberts 2 episodes
2009 Howie Do It Host Main
19 Episodes
2010 The Marriage Ref Himself Panelist
Season 1 episode 12: "Howie Mandel/Bette Midler/Craig Robinson"
The Dating Guy Brian Booyah Voice
2 episodes
2010–present America's Got Talent Judge Season 5–Present
2011 Flipping Dixie N/a Executive producer
Take Two with Phineas and Ferb Himself Episode: "Howie Mandel"
America's Most Wanted: America Fights Back Voice
Season 25 episode 1: "50 Fugitives, 50 States Special Edition"
2011–2013 Mobbed Host Co-creator
Executive producer
2012 What Would You Do? Himself Season 6; episode 3
The Big Bang Theory Uncredited
Season 6 episode 4: "The Re-Entry Minimization"
Take It All Host
D.L. Hughley: The Endangered List Himself
2013 Betty White's Off Their Rockers Season 2 episode 9
Howie Mandel & Germ-Free Friends Host
Fugget About It FBI Agent Rick Chickmagnet Voice
Season 2 episode 8: "The Fugly American"
2013–2014 Deal with It Himself Guest comedian - 4 episodes
Executive producer
2014 Pioneers of Television Season 4 episode 2: "Doctors and Nurses"
Joke or Choke N/a Executive producer
Last Comic Standing Himself Guest mentor
Season 8 episode 10: "Challenge 3 - Universal Tram Experience"
2015 Tanked Season 9 episode 1: "Howie Mandel is the Brains Behind ATM"
7 Days in Hell Prince Edward, Duke of Kent TV movie
Impractical Jokers Himself Season 4 episode 24: "Live Punishment Special"
Yidlife Crisis Episode: "Yidlife Crisis vs. Howie Mandel"
2016 Roadtrip Nation Episode: "Being You"
2017 Small Shots Sy 2 episodes
Superstore Himself Season 3 episode 1: "Grand Re-Opening"
Caraoke Showdown N/a Executive producer
2017–2020 Funny You Should Ask Himself 57 Episodes
2018 This Is Not Happening Writer
Season 4 episode 1: "Filth"
Robot Chicken Voice
Season 9 episode 7: "3 2 1 2 3 3 3, 2 2 2, 3...6 6?"
Game Changers Documentary
Inside Jokes Docu-series
2 episodes
2018–2019 Howie Mandel's animals doing things Director
Executive Producer
2019 Howie Mandel presents: Howie Mandel at the Howie Mandel Comedy Club TV special
Executive producer
Writer
The X Factor: Celebrity Guest Judge Auditions
Harley Quinn Himself Voice
Season 1 episode 2: "A High Bar"
2019–2020 America's Got Talent: The Champions Judge
2020 The Search for Canada's Game Shows Himself Docu-series
2021 The game theory $1,000,000 challenge for St. Jude Host
2022 Bullsh*t: The Game Show Host Netflix game show
2022–present Canada's Got Talent Judge Season 2–present
2023 America's Got Talent: All-Stars
The Masked Singer Himself/Rock Lobster Season 9 contestant
Game Changer Guest Judge Season 5 episode 12: "Game Changer: Battle Royale Pt. 3"
2024 America's Got Talent: Fantasy League Judge/Mentor Winning mentor
Stupid Pet Tricks Himself Season 1 episode 9: "Fart Scapegoat"
2024–2025 Deal or No Deal Island Himself - The Banker (season 1) Season 1 Finale, Season 2 premiere, Also Executive Producer
2026 The Price Is Right Tonight Himself

Comedy specials

[edit]
Specials
Year Title Role Notes
1983 The First Howie Mandel Special Himself Producer
Writer
1987 Howie from Maui Executive producer
Writer
1997 Howie Mandel on Ice
2006 Howie Mandel Live Writer

Video games

[edit]
Film
Year Title Role Notes
1993 TuneLand - Starring Howie Mandel Lil' Howie/Self Voice
1995 Great Word Adventure Lil' Howie
1996 Great Reading Adventure
Great Math Adventure
2006 Deal or No Deal Host
2015 Lego Dimensions Gizmo Voice

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Howie Mandel

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from Grokipedia
Howard Michael Mandel, known professionally as Howie Mandel, is a Canadian comedian, actor, television personality, and producer, born on November 29, 1955, in , . Renowned for his high-energy stand-up routines, improvisational humor, and signature germaphobic antics—such as refusing to shake hands due to his obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)—Mandel has maintained a prominent presence in entertainment for over four decades. His career spans television acting, voice work, game show hosting, and judging talent competitions, with notable achievements including an Emmy nomination and inductions into both the and . Mandel's early career began in 1979 when, on a dare during a trip to , he performed at and was quickly hired as a regular on the TV show . After starring in the 1980 Canadian film Gas, he gained widespread recognition in the United States with his role as the wisecracking Dr. Wayne Fiscus on the medical drama from 1982 to 1988. He expanded into , providing the voice of the mischievous Gizmo in the Gremlins films (1984 and 1990), characters on Muppet Babies including Bunsen Honeydew and , and creating and voicing the title character in the animated series (1990–1998), which aired in 65 countries. In the late 1990s, he hosted his own late-night , The Howie Mandel Show (1998–1999), and continued building his comedy profile through live performances, often exceeding 200 shows annually. Transitioning to game shows and reality television, Mandel hosted the high-stakes series from 2005 to 2009 and its 2018 revival, earning a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Reality/Competition Program Host. He has also hosted prank and hidden-camera shows such as Howie Do It, Mobbed, and Deal With It, and executive produced projects like Take It All. Since 2010, Mandel has served as a judge on 's , contributing his humor and insight through over 15 seasons, including the 2025 season where he continued to award Golden Buzzers to standout acts. In recent years, he launched the Howie Mandel Does Stuff with his daughter Jackelyn Shultz, featuring celebrity guests, and announced plans to host a Canadian primetime spin-off of in 2025. Additionally, he remains active in with performances, including the Laughing Matters fundraiser in 2025. On a personal note, Mandel has been married to his high school sweetheart, Terry Mandel, since 1980, and they have three children: daughters Jackelyn (born 1984) and Riley (born 1993), and son Alex (born 1989). The family resides in and faced challenges including the private battle of Mandel's grandson Axel with , which entered remission in 2025. Mandel has openly discussed his diagnoses of OCD and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in his 2009 memoir Here’s the Deal: Don’t Touch Me, as well as coping with his mother's . His honors include a star on the in 2008 for television and induction into in 2009 for arts and entertainment.

Early life and education

Upbringing and family

Howard Michael Mandel was born on November 29, 1955, in , , , to Jewish parents Albert "Al" Mandel and Evy Mandel. He has a younger brother, Steven. His family was of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, with ancestors hailing from and . Mandel was raised in the Willowdale neighborhood of , , a suburban area that provided a stable environment for his early years. His father, Al Mandel, worked as a lighting manufacturer and , contributing to the family's middle-class lifestyle. While details on his mother's profession are less documented, the family emphasized Jewish cultural traditions, which shaped Mandel's upbringing. Within this family setting, Mandel exhibited an outgoing and mischievous personality from a young age, often engaging in pranks that amused and occasionally frustrated those around him, fostering his natural inclination toward humor. These early interactions highlighted a dynamic home life centered on familial bonds and lighthearted antics, influencing his sociable demeanor before formal schooling challenges emerged.

Schooling and early jobs

Mandel attended several high schools in Toronto, including , where he faced academic challenges stemming from behavioral issues. He was expelled from for impersonating a member of the school board and signing a with a construction company to build an addition to the facility. Mandel was ultimately expelled from three high schools due to such pranks. Following his expulsions, Mandel did not pursue traditional higher education and did not attend college. He has stated that he did not obtain a high school equivalency diploma or GED. After leaving school, Mandel took on his first significant job as a door-to-door carpet salesman in Toronto, a role that offered him financial independence during his early adulthood. He excelled in sales, eventually expanding the business before transitioning to other pursuits. This early employment provided the stability he needed while he began exploring interests outside of formal education.

Television and film career

Acting roles

Mandel's breakthrough acting role came in 1982 when he was cast as Dr. Wayne Fiscus, a wisecracking emergency room intern, on the medical drama , which ran for six seasons until 1988. His portrayal of the bushy-haired, prank-prone physician provided much-needed amid the show's intense storylines about urban hospital life, earning him widespread recognition beyond . Mandel initially auditioned expecting a but embraced the dramatic format, contributing to the series' innovative blend of humor and social commentary. Mandel appeared in the 1983 comedy The Funny Farm, where he played Larry Pound, a fellow aspiring stand-up comedian in a group navigating the cutthroat world of comedy clubs. The film highlighted his improvisational skills and physical , drawing from his real-life experiences in the entertainment industry. Four years later, in 1987, he headlined Walk Like a Man, a satirical directed by , playing Bobo Shand, an adult man from being raised by wolves and struggling to reintegrate into . Co-starring and , the movie showcased Mandel's ability to blend with in a lead role. In addition to scripted series and films, Mandel's early television work included variety specials that blended acting sketches with stand-up, such as his 1983 special The First Howie Mandel Special, where he performed comedic characters and monologues in a live-audience format. He also made recurring guest appearances on comedy-variety programs like in the early 1980s, often improvising humorous bits that foreshadowed his multifaceted on-screen presence. These roles solidified his reputation as a versatile performer capable of dramatic depth in medical settings while excelling in comedic .

Voice acting and animation

Mandel's voice acting career showcases his versatile, high-pitched, and often childlike , which became a signature in and films requiring whimsical or mischievous characters. This distinctive style, characterized by energetic squeaks and inflections, allowed him to bring unique personality to non-human and youthful roles without relying on physical presence. One of his breakthrough voice roles was as Gizmo, the endearing in the horror-comedy film (1984), directed by . Mandel's portrayal captured Gizmo's innocent curiosity and vulnerability through soft, squeaky tones that contrasted the film's chaotic tone, contributing to the character's iconic status. He reprised the role in the sequel Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990), maintaining the same vocal consistency amid the escalated antics. Mandel expanded into animation production and leading voice work with Bobby's World (1990–1998), an he co-created with Jim Staahl and Jim Fisher, drawing from his own childhood experiences to depict the imaginative adventures of a young boy. As , he oversaw the production, which ran for seven seasons and 81 episodes, emphasizing creative over traditional plots. Mandel starred as the voice of the protagonist Bobby Generic, a hyperactive child whose inner world fueled the show's surreal humor, and also voiced Bobby's father, Howard Generic, blending live-action intros with animation. In addition to these major contributions, Mandel provided voices for other animated projects, including Maurice, a blue monster in the family fantasy film Little Monsters (1989), where his playful delivery enhanced the film's monstrous yet friendly underworld. His television animation work included voicing Skeeter, Baby Animal, and Baby Bunsen in the first two seasons of Muppet Babies (1984–1991), roles that repurposed his high-pitched style similar to Gizmo for the Muppet nursery antics. These performances highlighted his ability to adapt to ensemble casts in children's programming.

Game show involvement

Deal or No Deal

Howie Mandel hosted the U.S. version of , a adapted from the Dutch format , which premiered on on December 19, 2005. In each episode, a contestant selects one of 26 briefcases containing hidden cash amounts ranging from $0.01 to $1,000,000, then eliminates the remaining briefcases one by one, revealing their values and narrowing the possible winnings. Periodically, an anonymous "Banker" offers a cash deal based on the average of the remaining amounts, and the contestant must decide whether to accept or continue, testing their risk tolerance and decision-making under pressure. Mandel's hosting emphasized the emotional intensity of these choices, drawing on his comedic background to build suspense and engage audiences with his animated reactions and encouragement of contestants' personal stories. The primetime NBC run, which spanned four seasons until 2009, became a major success, averaging over 10 million viewers per episode in its first season and establishing the show as a cultural for its simple yet thrilling format that highlighted human psychology over skill. Mandel's approachable and high-energy style, including his signature germaphobic humor and enthusiastic interactions, contributed to the show's appeal, making it a staple of 's Monday night lineup and spawning international adaptations. A syndicated version followed from to 2010, also hosted by Mandel, before the series paused. In 2018, revived Deal or No Deal for a fifth season as a series, with Mandel returning as host and , airing from December 5, 2018, to August 7, 2019. The revival maintained the core briefcase format but incorporated updated production elements to refresh the experience for modern viewers, though it did not achieve the same primetime ratings peaks. Mandel described the show as life-changing, noting in a 2018 statement how it shifted his career by revealing the raw humanity in contestants' decisions: "Nothing changed my life, career and perception of humanity more than one project, and that was ‘Deal or No Deal.’” Mandel expanded his involvement with the franchise as an for the 2024 reality competition spin-off Island on , where he also served as the voice of the Banker for Season 1, revealed dramatically in the finale. This version transplanted the format to a , with 12 contestants competing in group challenges intertwined with briefcase eliminations for a potential $200 million prize pool, blending strategy and survival elements while retaining the core deal-making tension. The series premiered on February 26, 2024, hosted by , and Mandel's Banker role added a layer of mystery, echoing his original hosting legacy.

America's Got Talent

Howie Mandel joined as a judge for its fifth season in 2010, replacing and serving alongside and . As the longest-serving judge on the show, Mandel has appeared in every season through the 20th in 2025, which was won by singer . His judging style emphasizes spotting raw talent and providing encouraging feedback, particularly for unconventional acts, while occasionally sparking debate with candid remarks. Mandel has been notably generous with the Golden Buzzer, introduced in season 10, using it to fast-track standout performers across genres like singing, dance, and comedy; for instance, he awarded it to young singer in 2018 for her energetic rock performance and to dance crew Murmuration in 2023 for their synchronized aerial routine. By 2025, he had activated the buzzer at least 19 times, highlighting acts that captured his enthusiasm and contributing to memorable moments that boosted viewer engagement. In 2022, Mandel expanded his judging role to Canada's Got Talent on Citytv, announced as part of the revival's panel alongside Lilly Singh, Kardinal Offishall, and Trish Stratus, infusing the Canadian version with his humor and talent-spotting expertise. His presence on both shows has helped maintain America's Got Talent's format of showcasing diverse acts—from magicians and acrobats to ventriloquists—while fostering an entertaining panel dynamic that has sustained the franchise's popularity over 15 years. Mandel occasionally stepped away for personal reasons, such as missing a September 2025 live results show due to a family loss, but returned shortly after to continue judging.

Other hosting roles

In addition to his prominent roles on major game shows, Mandel has hosted several other programs that blend trivia, competition, and entertainment elements. In 2012, he served as the host of Take It All, a short-lived game show that premiered on December 10 and ran for one season, featuring contestants in a high-stakes gift exchange format inspired by the "" , where players could steal prizes from one another to build their winnings up to $200,000. The series emphasized strategy and bluffing, aligning with Mandel's comedic style, though it received mixed reviews for its format and was canceled after airing seven episodes. Mandel expanded his portfolio with Bullsht: The Game Show*, a series that debuted on April 27, 2022, and consisted of one with 10 episodes. In this trivia-based competition, contestants aimed to win up to $1 million by either answering questions correctly or bluffing panelists into selecting incorrect responses, rewarding deception over knowledge in a format that played to Mandel's improvisational humor. The show drew comparisons to his earlier work for its emphasis on high-pressure decisions but was criticized for uneven pacing and limited replay value. Looking ahead, Mandel was announced on June 3, 2025, as the host of the Canadian adaptation The Price Is Right Tonight, a prime-time reimagining of the classic pricing produced by for , set to premiere in spring 2026 with production beginning in December 2025 in . This marks his return to the franchise in a localized format tailored for Canadian audiences, featuring familiar elements like bidding on prizes but with a nighttime twist, and Mandel has described it as "tariff-free" entertainment amid U.S.- trade discussions. Beyond traditional game shows, Mandel has ventured into variety and hosting. From June 22, 1998, to 1999, he fronted The Howie Mandel Show, a syndicated daytime talk-variety program that aired for one season and included celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances, aiming to revive the classic variety format with guests like and . More recently, in the 2020s, he co-hosts the Howie Mandel Does Stuff alongside his daughter Jackelyn Shultz, launched in 2021 and distributed on platforms like , where episodes feature unfiltered discussions on comedy, personal anecdotes, and celebrity interviews in a casual, improvisational style.

Other professional activities

Comedy specials and stand-up

Howie Mandel's first stand-up performance was in 1977 at Yuk Yuk's comedy club in Toronto, where he took the stage on a dare from a friend during an amateur night, despite having no prior experience. Initially nervous, he incorporated his personal germaphobia into the routine by pulling a latex glove—carried for hygiene reasons—over his head and inflating it, which unexpectedly drew laughs from the audience and marked the origin of his germ-focused humor. This vulnerability about his discomfort evolved into a signature element of his act, blending self-deprecation with exaggerated reactions to everyday fears. One of Mandel's early breakthroughs came with his 1986 HBO special Howie Mandel: North American Watusi Tour, filmed in , where he showcased his rapid-fire delivery and audience interaction during a 52-minute performance that highlighted his rising popularity on the comedy circuit. The special captured his tour across North American cities, emphasizing high-energy routines that propelled him to sell-out shows, including two at that year. Over the decades, Mandel's style matured into a prop-minimal, physically dynamic approach, relying on expressive facial contortions, manic pacing, and to convey without heavy reliance on traditional props beyond occasional signature bits like stunt. He continued touring extensively, maintaining a schedule of live performances that allowed him to refine this energetic persona, from club circuits to modern arena dates. In 2024, he released his first in nearly 40 years, Howie Mandel Does A Show, recorded from live sets and featuring updated material on personal quirks and observations.

Producing and business ventures

In 2008, Mandel co-founded Alevy Productions to manage the production of the , leveraging the series' success to expand into other unscripted formats. Through Alevy, he executive produced international and spin-off variants of , including the Canadian version and themed iterations like , a hidden-camera prank series that aired on TBS from 2013 to 2014. The company also handled production for short-lived competitions such as Take It All in 2012, where contestants vied for escalating prizes by selecting mystery boxes. In 2016, Alevy Productions signed an overall deal with Critical Content, enabling Mandel to exclusively develop and produce original series for television and digital platforms, focusing on innovative concepts. This partnership underscored Mandel's shift toward behind-the-scenes roles, building on his hosting experience to create content that emphasized high-stakes decision-making and audience engagement. Beyond television, Mandel has pursued entrepreneurial investments in . In 2021, Alevy Productions formed a with Super 78 Studios and MetaMedia to launch MagicScreen, a platform designed to deliver interactive experiences—such as live events, ads, and games—to cinema screens across the U.S. and . The initiative aimed to transform passive moviegoing into participatory , with Mandel highlighting its potential to bridge live performance and digital innovation. In 2022, Mandel invested in and joined as an advisor to Proto Inc. (previously Portl), a holoportation company that develops lifelike holographic displays for remote communication and events. His involvement included demonstrating the technology through personal appearances, positioning Proto as a tool for germ-free, global interactions aligned with his public persona.

Recent projects (2024–2025)

Shifting focus to in 2025, Mandel launched his team in the Global Gaming League (GGL) in October, becoming the league's newest celebrity owner and promoting competitive gaming through high-profile matchups. His squad, named "Howie Do It," debuted on October 29 in against podcasters and Wallo267, emphasizing entertainment-driven expansions in the gaming sector. Later that year, Mandel expanded his branded partnerships with the release of the fifth installment of the SEE Eyewear × Howie Mandel collection in fall 2025, introducing six new handmade frames in styles like metal aviators and jewel-toned acetates, handcrafted in and . Concurrently, in 2025, he was announced to participate in promotional events for Yaamava' Resort & Casino's "Million Dollar Moments" giveaway, scheduled to crown winners in a $4 million payout promotion, including a $1 million grand prize, on November 30 and December 1. In June 2025, it was announced that Mandel would host the Canadian spin-off of The Price Is Right, titled The Price Is Right Tonight, with filming scheduled for December 2025 in Toronto and episodes airing in spring 2026.

Personal life

Family

Howie Mandel has been married to Terry Mandel (née Soil) since March 16, 1980. The couple, who are childhood sweethearts from Toronto, Canada, first met in high school at a YMCA snack shop, where Mandel borrowed a quarter from Soil to buy french fries. Mandel and his wife have three children: daughters Jackelyn "Jackie" Shultz (born December 14, 1984) and Riley Ehrlich (born 1992), and son Alex Mandel (born September 30, 1989). Jackelyn and Alex have pursued careers in , while Riley has maintained a more private life, working in healthcare. The Mandels are grandparents to several children, including 9-year-old Axel Shultz, the son of Jackelyn and her husband Alex Shultz. Axel was diagnosed with in 2024 during a family vacation in , initially mistaken for the flu, and underwent a bone marrow transplant from his father before entering remission in 2025. The family resides in a luxurious mansion in the gated community of , .

Health conditions

Howie Mandel has been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that significantly impact daily life. His OCD manifests primarily as germaphobia, leading to avoidance of physical contact such as handshakes and an intense fear of contamination from everyday objects like handrails or money. Mandel was diagnosed in his 40s, though he experienced symptoms throughout his life, describing them as repetitive "What if..." thoughts that could consume his day and leave him feeling on the verge of a breakdown. Mandel publicly disclosed his OCD struggles in his 2009 autobiography, Here's the Deal: Don't Touch Me, co-written with , where he detailed the disorder's isolating effects and his personal rituals to manage it. The book highlighted how his germaphobia influenced professional choices, such as opting for fist bumps instead of handshakes on . In addition to OCD, Mandel has (ADHD), diagnosed as an adult, which contributes to his high-energy performance style and difficulty sitting still or focusing for extended periods. This restlessness manifests in constant movement, which he channels into dynamic comedy and hosting roles, but it also challenges scripted work and family interactions. To manage ADHD symptoms, Mandel incorporates daily running, up to 15 miles on some days, as a form of that helps release and sustain his energetic . Mandel has also openly discussed his mother Evy Mandel's diagnosis with , announced in 2023. He has shared stories of coping through humor, such as misinterpreted interactions due to her condition, while emphasizing the emotional toll on families. Mandel uses these experiences to raise awareness about Alzheimer's, advocating for support and research. Mandel has become an advocate for OCD awareness, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional help to of stigma and silence. In 2025, he participated in campaigns during OCD Awareness Week in October, partnering with organizations like NOCD to educate the public on the disorder's realities and promote effective treatments, aiming to reduce misunderstandings and encourage those affected to speak out. Through these efforts, Mandel shares his experiences to inspire others, noting that vulnerability has led to widespread support and connection.

Philanthropy

Howie Mandel has been a prominent for awareness, particularly focusing on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), drawing from his personal experiences to support relevant organizations. In , he participated in the International OCD Foundation's (IOCDF) "Deconstructing Stigma" campaign alongside , which aimed to blend celebrity voices with personal stories to reduce stigma around mental illness. In 2022, Mandel partnered with NOCD for the #KnowOCD initiative to educate the public on OCD symptoms and treatment, addressing the fact that many sufferers are misdiagnosed or untreated. That same year, he collaborated with the (NAMI) and NOCD during OCD Awareness Month to promote access to therapy for severe conditions. Mandel's charitable efforts extend to children's health, including hospitals and , with his involvement notably increasing following his grandson Axel's leukemia diagnosis in 2024. He has hosted events for pediatric care, such as the 2021 Laugh Out Loud gala for , which raised $1 million for the hospital network serving children and families in . In 2023, Mandel joined celebrities in supporting during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, contributing to efforts that fund treatments for pediatric cancers like . Following Axel's treatment at , which included a transplant leading to remission in 2025, Mandel publicly praised the facility's role in advancing pediatric . Mandel also supports Jewish community initiatives and entertainment industry charities. In 2021, he performed in a virtual reading of the for Funny Story, benefiting the Met Council on Jewish Poverty in . During the COVID-19 pandemic, he urged donations to the Los Angeles Jewish Health's emergency relief fund to aid vulnerable seniors. In the entertainment sector, Mandel has been active with Comedy Gives Back, hosting the 2020 Laugh Aid livestream that raised over $300,000 for comedians facing financial hardship due to the pandemic.

Public issues and recognition

Scams using his name

Fraudsters have exploited Howie Mandel's celebrity status in various impersonation schemes since the , primarily through attempts designed to solicit personal information or funds. One notable example from 2013 involved a widespread falsely claiming to be from Mandel, offering recipients a chance to appear on , which had already ended its run; the message directed users to malicious links on suspicious domains like "tracking.dzuk.com," potentially leading to identity theft or malware installation, and reportedly affected over 500,000 individuals. These tactics evolved into more sophisticated scams by the 2020s, using articles and ads to lure victims with promises of high returns. In March 2025, scammers created a counterfeit CBC article headlined “Supporters gather for Howie Mandel's release after scandalous interview,” mimicking the network's design with manipulated images, such as photoshopped protest photos and altered screenshots from . The bogus story funneled readers to the "Starlight Stakemarket" platform, a dubious site promoting quick financial gains, accessed via a fraudulent like "ca.implycrashfirm.world" instead of CBC's official domain. Similar deceptive campaigns in 2025, including April reports of fake articles claiming Mandel was under , directed users to platforms via embedded links, capitalizing on sensationalized "" narratives to promote volatile investments. These ads proliferated on platforms like and , often using AI-generated or altered imagery to enhance credibility and urgency. By November 2025, such scam ads featuring Mandel in fabricated scenarios were generating significant revenue for ad hosts while preying on unsuspecting users. Mandel has actively cautioned fans against these impersonations through his official channels. In July 2024, he posted on alerting followers to numerous fake profiles masquerading as him, emphasizing the need to verify authenticity before engaging. He has reiterated similar warnings in subsequent interviews, urging verification of endorsements and avoidance of unsolicited opportunities bearing his name.

Controversies

In 2025, Mandel faced public backlash for several on-air and podcast incidents. During an August episode of , he was booed by the audience after making a critical comment about a group of child performers, prompting co-judge Sofia Vergara to defend them. In September 2025, on another episode, Mandel harshly criticized magician Zak Mira's act, calling it unoriginal, which drew audience chants to retract his statement and criticism from as "uncalled for," though Mandel later apologized on the spot. On his podcast Howie Mandel Does Stuff in February 2025, Mandel ambushed comedian Bill Burr and musician Billy Corgan with questions about alleged half-brother drama, leading to an awkward confrontation; he later issued a public apology. In August 2025, during another episode, Mandel engaged in a heated debate with guest Marc Maron over Donald Trump's alleged racism, sparking divided fan reactions online.

Awards and honors

Howie Mandel has garnered significant recognition for his contributions to , television hosting, and throughout his career. In 2008, Mandel received a star on the in the category of television, honoring his multifaceted work as a comedian, actor, and host. The following year, in 2009, he was inducted into , celebrating his impact on Canadian arts and entertainment through , production, and . Mandel earned a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2008 for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for his work on , where he also received producer credits leading to Daytime Emmy nominations, including a nomination in 2009 for Outstanding . His role as a judge on since 2010 has contributed to the show's multiple Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program, underscoring his influence in the genre. Earlier in his career, Mandel was nominated for two in 1993 for the variety special Howie: Best Variety Program and Best Performance in a Variety Program or Series. For the Bobby's World, which he created and voiced, he received Daytime Emmy nominations in 1991 for Outstanding Animated Program and in 1994 for Outstanding Writing in an Animated Program. In 2024, Mandel was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for Best Host or Presenter, Factual or Reality/Competition, for hosting .

Filmography

Film

Howie Mandel began his film career in the early 1980s with supporting roles in comedies, transitioning to leading parts and voice work in notable genre films. His appearances often highlighted his and improvisational style, contributing to ensemble casts in satirical and family-oriented productions.
YearFilmRoleDescription
1981GasMatt LloydMandel played a young gas station attendant caught in a chaotic scheme amid a fuel shortage crisis in this Canadian satire directed by Les Rose.
1983The Funny FarmLarry PoundAs a struggling stand-up comic, Mandel portrayed one of the performers navigating the cutthroat world of a Los Angeles comedy club.
1984GremlinsGizmo (voice)Mandel provided the high-pitched voice for the endearing Mogwai creature central to the film's horror-comedy plot about mischievous monsters.
1986A Fine MessDennis PowellCo-starring with Ted Danson, Mandel depicted a hapless chef entangled in a horse-racing scam and mob troubles in this Blake Edwards-directed farce.
1987Walk Like a ManBobo ShandIn the lead role, Mandel starred as a man raised by wolves who returns to civilization, struggling to adapt in this comedic exploration of feral upbringing.
1989Little MonstersMauriceMandel embodied the mischievous blue monster under the bed who befriends a young boy, leading to adventures in a hidden monster realm.
1990Gremlins 2: The New BatchGizmo (voice)Returning as the voice of Gizmo, Mandel reprised the role in this sequel where the Mogwai faces new gremlin outbreaks in a New York skyscraper.
1994Magic KidMick (voice)Mandel voiced the magical mentor in this martial arts family film about a boy learning kung fu.
1999The Tangerine BearBaseball Glove (voice)In this animated holiday special film, Mandel provided voices for toy characters in a story of a misfit bear finding belonging.
2001Cats & DogsThe Dog (voice)Mandel lent his voice to a character in this live-action/animated spy comedy pitting pets against each other.

Television

Mandel first gained prominence on television as Dr. Wayne Fiscus, a wisecracking orderly in the medical drama , appearing in all 137 episodes from 1982 to 1988. From 1984 to 1991, he provided voices for characters including Bunsen Honeydew and on the animated series Muppet Babies, contributing to 107 episodes. In 1990, he created and voiced the lead character Bobby Generic, along with his father Howard, in the animated series , which ran for 81 episodes until 1998 and explored the imaginative adventures of a young boy. Mandel hosted the syndicated late-night variety show The Howie Mandel Show from 1998 to 1999, appearing in 65 episodes. Mandel transitioned to hosting with the Deal or No Deal in 2005, serving as the host through its original run and revivals, totaling 232 episodes until 2019. He joined the judging panel of 's America's Got Talent starting with season 5 in 2010 and has continued through season 20 in 2025, contributing his comedic perspective to contestant evaluations across hundreds of episodes. In 2022, Mandel hosted the trivia competition Bullsht: The Game Show*, a 10-episode series where contestants answered questions and detected lies to win up to $1 million.

Comedy specials

Howie Mandel's comedy specials span his early career on and a recent return to audio releases, showcasing his signature and improvisational style. His first major special, The First Howie Mandel Special, aired in 1983 on as a one-hour performance that highlighted his unbridled imagination and crowd interaction. In 1985, Mandel followed with Howie Mandel: Live from Carnegie Mall, a production filmed on location at the West Covina Fashion Plaza, featuring skits and stand-up set entirely within a mall environment. The 1986 HBO special Howie Mandel: North American Watusi Tour captured a 52-minute live performance in , emphasizing Mandel's crowd work, , and high-energy delivery.

Audio releases

In 2024, Mandel released Howie Mandel Does A Show as a 12-track audio comedy album available on streaming platforms like and , featuring routines on topics such as high school memories and everyday absurdities.

Video games

Mandel has provided for several educational and entertainment video games, primarily in the as part of the Lil' Howie series, where he voiced the anthropomorphic bear character Little Howie, designed to teach children skills like , reading, math, and language through interactive mini-games. In 2006, he reprised his role as the host in the adaptation of , where players navigate the game's briefcase-opening mechanics with his on-screen guidance. Mandel voiced the character Gizmo from the Gremlins franchise in the 2015 action-adventure game Lego Dimensions, contributing to the game's of licensed characters in its crossover storyline. In 2020, he starred in the Howie Go Viral, an arcade-style title inspired by his germaphobia, where players avoid germs in a humorous, pandemic-timed concept that originated in pre-2020 development. In 2025, Mandel entered the competitive gaming space as a team owner in the Global Gaming League, a league blending , music, and culture, where his team "Howie Do It Gaming" is set to participate in events such as a matchup against podcasters and Wallo267 on November 18, 2025.

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  45. https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/all-of-howie-mandels-golden-buzzers-on-americas-got-talent
  46. https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/howie-mandels-golden-buzzer-shines-on-americas-got-talent/
  47. https://www.rogerssportsandmedia.com/the-latest/canadas-got-talent-judges-host-announcement/
  48. https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2025/05/20/americas-got-talent-2025/83749669007/
  49. https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/howie-mandel-not-on-agt-september-10
  50. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/howie-mandel-take-all-new-399747/
  51. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2486556/
  52. https://deadline.com/2022/01/bullsht-the-game-show-howie-mandel-netflix-1234904786/
  53. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/bullsht-the-game-show
  54. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/bullsht_the_game_show/s01
  55. https://realscreen.com/2025/06/03/howie-mandel-to-host-canadian-edition-of-the-price-is-right-for-rogers-citytv/
  56. https://www.rogerssportsandmedia.com/the-latest/proven-hits-return-to-citytv-the-price-is-right-tonight-with-host-howie-mandel-coming-spring-2026/
  57. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0166916/
  58. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-howie-mandel-does-stuff-po-78028868/
  59. https://www.cbc.ca/comedy/how-howie-mandel-got-his-start-in-comedy-and-what-keeps-him-going-1.5724603
  60. https://abcnews.go.com/2020/howie-mandel-public-obsessive-compulisve-disorder-fear-germs/story?id=9153966
  61. https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/howie-mandel-north-american-watusi-tour/1000247378/
  62. https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/tv/a33544981/howie-mandel-americas-got-talent-interview/
  63. https://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Howie-Mandel-Releasing-First-Comedy-Album-in-Nearly-40-Years-20240827
  64. https://www.forbes.com/sites/dorothypomerantz/2011/03/08/howie-mandels-next-act/
  65. https://jonesentertainmentgroup.ca/artists/howie-mandel
  66. https://deadline.com/2016/06/howie-mandel-alevy-productions-critical-content-producer-deals-1201769350/
  67. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/howie-mandel-and-super-78-studios-partner-with-metamedia-to-deliver-the-worlds-first-interactive-content-to-movie-screens-301358405.html
  68. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/howie-mandel-magic-screen-animation-1234998651/
  69. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/06/06/2457170/0/en/Howie-Mandel-Goes-All-In-on-Proto-Hologram-Think-inside-the-box.html
  70. https://www.tmz.com/2022/06/05/howie-mandel-perform-box-become-advisor-hologram-tech/
  71. https://ministryofsport.com/howie-mandel-joins-global-gaming-league-as-newest-team-owner/
  72. https://www.instagram.com/p/DPwUteIkUJG/
  73. https://seeeyewear.com/pages/2025-howie-mandel-collection
  74. https://www.yaamava.com/news/howie-mandel-crown-yaamava-resort-casinos-next-millionaire
  75. https://people.com/tv/who-is-terry-mandel-howie-mandel-wife/
  76. https://streetsoftoronto.com/toronto-culture/how-they-met-howie-mandel-and-terry-mandel/
  77. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9321794/
  78. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/riley-mandel.html
  79. https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/857412/meet-howie-mandel-3-talented-kids/
  80. https://people.com/howie-mandel-gives-update-on-grandson-s-remission-after-leukemia-exclusive-11817638
  81. https://www.facebook.com/HouseOfCeleb/posts/-howie-mandels-hidden-hills-mansion-with-8-beds-10-baths-and-12816-sq-ft-this-ho/1585197878927904/
  82. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/howie-mandel-life-ocd-drowning-171324392.html
  83. https://www.additudemag.com/howie-mandel-ocd/
  84. https://www.gq.com/story/real-life-diet-howie-mandel
  85. https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/howie-mandel-mother-alzheimers-diagnosis-glasses
  86. https://www.womansworld.com/wellness/mental-health/howie-mandel-ocd-how-he-manages-intrusive-thoughts
  87. https://iocdf.org/media/press-releases/deconstructing-stigma/
  88. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220523005727/en/Howie-Mandel-Joins-NOCD-to-Change-the-OCD-Conversation
  89. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6mY5I8Ea6s
  90. https://trilliumgiving.ca/articles/8th-annual-laugh-out-loud-gala-raises-1-million-dollars
  91. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230901545122/en/Howie-Mandel-Mya-Alysia-Reiner-join-celebrities-businesses-supporting-St.-Jude-Childrens-Research-Hospital-during-Childhood-Cancer-Awareness-Month
  92. https://www.movieguide.org/news-articles/howie-mandel-updates-about-grandson-in-leukemia-remission.html
  93. https://jewishjournal.com/news/united-states/333310/howie-mandel-bob-saget-and-others-to-perform-the-book-of-esther/
  94. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iY0uHfMsgY
  95. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/comedians-take-part-laugh-aid-raising-money-coronavirus-emergency-relief-fund-1287914/
  96. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OyDfRa7BSY
  97. https://www.thewhitehatter.ca/post/case-study-how-scammers-use-fake-news-to-trick-you
  98. https://x.com/Consumer__Watch/status/1914895829174714642
  99. https://www.cracked.com/article_41582_crypto-grifters-want-us-to-think-that-michael-cera-and-howie-mandel-were-arrested.html
  100. https://www.readthepeak.com/stories/11-25-scam-ads-are-making-meta-big-money
  101. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1065873478236788&id=100044424367660&set=a.284085883082222
  102. https://www.facebook.com/61557985707943/posts/howie-mandel-sparks-outrage-on-agt-as-hes-booed-off-by-the-audience-for-a-savage/122234892746266190/
  103. https://www.wfmz.com/entertainment/agt-howie-mandel-under-fire-after-blasting-magician-zak-mira/article_78c9faca-b369-5882-98cc-6d7dc1d809d5.html
  104. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/howie-mandel-apologizes-ambushing-bill-150410679.html
  105. https://inews.zoombangla.com/podcast-debate-ignites-marc-maron-challenges-howie-mandel-on-trumps-racism/
  106. https://www.televisionacademy.com/bios/howie-mandel
  107. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005177/awards/
  108. https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/howie-mandel/bio/3000383900/
  109. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005177/
  110. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082440/fullcredits/
  111. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083978/fullcredits/
  112. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091051/fullcredits/
  113. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094288/fullcredits/
  114. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097758/fullcredits/
  115. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110445/fullcredits/
  116. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0202790/fullcredits/
  117. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0239395/fullcredits/
  118. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083483/
  119. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086780/
  120. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0165586/
  121. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0493378/
  122. https://parade.com/tv/americas-got-talent-2025-season-20
  123. https://www.netflix.com/title/81326202
  124. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt16912298/
  125. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1486726/
  126. https://letterboxd.com/film/howie-mandel-north-american-watusi-tour/
  127. https://open.spotify.com/album/0bJ4ct4J0NkjBcWIHwfTBQ
  128. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2093287/
  129. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5589016/
  130. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5589008/
  131. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5588986/
  132. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0945545/
  133. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13109904/
  134. https://www.tmz.com/2025/10/09/howie-mandel-global-gaming-league/
  135. https://www.blackenterprise.com/gillie-wallo-global-gaming-league/
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