Howie Mandel was born on November 29, 1955, in Toronto, Canada. He grew up in a middle-class family where his father worked as a lighting manufacturer and his mother was a real estate agent. Mandel had a passion for making people laugh from a young age, often entertaining his friends and family with his comedic antics.
Despite his natural talent for comedy, Mandel struggled in school. He was often a class clown and frequently found himself in trouble for his disruptive behavior. In fact, he was eventually expelled from high school for a prank in which he impersonated a member of the school board and signed a construction contract without permission.
After his expulsion, Mandel took on odd jobs to make ends meet. He worked as a carpet salesman, trying to find his way in the world and make a living.
Despite his rocky start, Mandel's big break came when he began performing stand-up comedy at local nightclubs. His unique style and quick wit quickly caught the attention of audiences and he soon gained a reputation as a rising star in the comedy world.
In 1978, Mandel made his first television appearance on the talent show "Make Me Laugh," where he won over the judges and the audience with his hilarious act. This led to numerous other television appearances, including on shows like "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and "Late Night with David Letterman."
One of Mandel's most iconic roles came in 1982 when he was cast as Dr. Wayne Fiscus on the medical drama "St. Elsewhere." His portrayal of the lovable and quirky doctor earned him critical acclaim and helped to solidify his status as a versatile and talented actor.
However, Mandel truly became a household name when he landed the hosting gig for the popular NBC game show "Deal or No Deal" in 2005. His infectious energy and comedic flair made him a hit with audiences, and the show quickly became a huge success. Mandel's popularity only continued to grow, leading to numerous other hosting opportunities and television appearances.
Despite his busy career, Mandel has always made time for his family. In 1980, he married Terry Soil, with whom he has two daughters, Riley and Jackie, and a son, Alex. Mandel is known for being a devoted husband and father, often speaking about the importance of family in his life.
In addition to his work in television, Mandel is also a successful voice actor and producer. He created the beloved children's cartoon "Bobby's World," which aired for eight seasons and garnered a loyal fan base.
Furthermore, Mandel has dabbled in various other projects, including hosting events like the premiere of Fox's flash-mob show "Mobbed" in 2011. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting numerous charities and causes close to his heart.
Overall, Howie Mandel's career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and enduring passion for entertainment. From humble beginnings to international fame, he continues to captivate audiences with his humor and charisma, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.