The seemingly ageless comedian and television personality, Howie Mandel, continues to be one of the busiest figures in entertainment, juggling roles as a game show host, talent judge, and mental health advocate. Born in Toronto, Canada, Mandel has built a decades-long career defined by his spontaneous humor and a surprising ability to pivot between dramatic acting, hosting, and stand-up comedy. This article will reveal his current age as of December 11, 2025, and dive into his most recent projects and the personal battles that have defined his public life.
For fans curious about the man behind the infamous germophobia and the signature bald head, Howie Mandel’s journey is far more complex than his on-screen antics suggest. From his early days in stand-up to his current high-profile judging role, his career is a masterclass in longevity and reinvention, all while managing significant personal health challenges.
Howard Mandel: A Complete Biography and Profile
Howard Michael Mandel, known universally as Howie Mandel, is a Canadian comedian, actor, television personality, and producer. His career has spanned over four decades, making him a household name across North America. He is celebrated for his quick wit, high-energy performances, and his candid advocacy for mental health awareness.
- Full Name: Howard Michael Mandel
- Date of Birth: November 29, 1955
- Age (as of Dec 11, 2025): 70 years old
- Place of Birth: Willowdale, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Nationality: Canadian
- Occupation: Comedian, Television Personality, Actor, Producer, Author
- Spouse: Terry Mandel (née Soil) (m. 1980)
- Children: Jackelyn Shultz, Alex Mandel, Riley Mandel (3 total)
- Grandchildren: 3 (including Axel)
- Known For: *America's Got Talent* (AGT) Judge, *Deal or No Deal* Host, *St. Elsewhere* (Dr. Wayne Fiscus), *Bobby's World* (Creator/Voice Actor)
Fact 1: Howie Mandel Turned 70 in 2025
One of the most frequently asked questions about the energetic comedian is, "How old is Howie Mandel?" Howie Mandel celebrated his 70th birthday on November 29, 2025. His ability to maintain a grueling schedule as a judge on *America's Got Talent* (AGT), a touring stand-up comedian, and a podcast host is remarkable for someone entering their eighth decade. This milestone birthday highlights a career characterized by an almost relentless drive and a commitment to staying relevant in an ever-changing industry.
Mandel's age is particularly surprising to many fans, as his on-screen persona is often characterized by a childlike enthusiasm and spontaneity. He has successfully navigated the transition from a young, edgy comedian at The Comedy Store in the late 1970s to a respected television veteran, a testament to his enduring appeal and adaptability.
Fact 2: His 2025 Schedule Proves He’s Not Slowing Down
Despite turning 70, Mandel's professional calendar for 2025 was packed with high-profile engagements, demonstrating his continued relevance and demand. His work in 2025 spanned television, live events, and even casino promotions, ensuring his presence across multiple media platforms.
Recent and Current 2025 Projects:
- *America's Got Talent* (AGT): He continues his role as a long-standing judge on the hit reality competition series, often providing the most unpredictable and humorous critiques.
- Live Comedy and Events: Mandel headlined "Laughing Matters 2025," showcasing his commitment to his roots in stand-up comedy.
- Promotional Appearances: In November 2025, he was announced as the host for Yaamava' Resort & Casino's "Million Dollar Moments" promotion, further diversifying his income streams and public visibility.
- Awards Season: He was a notable attendee at the prestigious 2025 Footwear News Achievement Awards in New York City in December 2025, keeping him in the public eye during the end-of-year season.
These recent projects, coupled with his hosting gig on the Netflix series *Bullshit the Game Show* and his documentary *Howie Mandel: But Enough...*, cement his status as a major entertainment force into 2025 and beyond.
Fact 3: The Serious Side of the Comedian—His Mental Health Advocacy
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Howie Mandel's later career is his candid discussion and advocacy for mental health. Mandel has openly struggled with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for most of his life.
His OCD manifests most famously as severe germophobia (mysophobia), which is why he is rarely seen shaking hands and often uses fist bumps. He has stated that he was diagnosed with OCD in his 40s, a diagnosis that finally provided a framework for understanding his lifelong struggles.
Mandel has partnered with organizations like NOCD, a telehealth provider for OCD, to destigmatize mental illness and encourage others to seek treatment. He frequently uses his platform to share coping mechanisms and emphasize the importance of therapy and medication, transforming his personal struggle into a powerful source of public education and support.
Fact 4: The Career That Spans Genres—From Drama to Cartoons
Many fans only know Mandel as the *AGT* judge or the *Deal or No Deal* host, but his career is surprisingly diverse. His big break came not in comedy, but in a critically acclaimed medical drama.
- *St. Elsewhere* (1982–1988): Mandel played the role of Dr. Wayne Fiscus for six seasons, proving his range as a serious actor in a major network drama.
- *Bobby's World* (1990–1998): He created and voiced the title character, Bobby Generic, in the Emmy-nominated animated series. This show became a massive hit, showcasing his talents as a writer and voice actor.
- Game Show Hosting: He is most famous for hosting the American and Canadian versions of the hit game show *Deal or No Deal* (2005–2019), where his emotional connection with contestants became a signature part of the show.
Fact 5: His 45-Year Marriage to Terry Mandel
In the often-turbulent world of Hollywood, Howie Mandel's marriage to his wife, Terry Mandel (née Soil), stands out as a beacon of stability. The couple married in 1980 and have been together for over 45 years.
They share three adult children—Jackelyn Shultz, Alex Mandel, and Riley Mandel—and three grandchildren. Terry has often been cited by Howie as his rock, providing crucial support as he navigated his career and his mental health challenges. Their daughter, Jackelyn, is a popular podcaster and has spoken publicly about her father’s struggles, further illustrating the family's commitment to transparency.
Fact 6: The Famous Fist Bump Origin
Mandel's signature fist bump is not just a quirky habit; it's a direct result of his germophobia. Due to his severe fear of germs, shaking hands is a major source of anxiety. The fist bump became his practical and now iconic alternative. It is an LSI keyword directly tied to his most well-known personal health challenge. This public adaptation is a small but powerful example of how he manages his OCD in his daily life and professional interactions.
Fact 7: The Early Days—Getting Discovered at The Comedy Store
Mandel's big break was almost accidental. On a trip to Los Angeles in 1979, he was encouraged by friends to try stand-up comedy at the legendary Comedy Store's amateur night. After a successful impromptu performance, he was quickly hired as a regular. This spontaneous moment launched a career that would make him a global star, proving that sometimes, the biggest opportunities come from simply taking a chance.
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