Howie Mandel, the famous comedian and host of “America’s Got Talent,” has enjoyed a long and successful career in entertainment. Equally impressive is his enduring marriage to his wife, Terry Mandel (née Soil). Married for over 40 years, the couple has a fascinating love story that began in their childhood. This article delves into the life of Terry Mandel, her relationship with Howie, and their journey together. Notably, Howie Mandel’s net worth is estimated to be around $60 million as of 2024, and he is currently 68 years old.
How Did Howie and Terry Mandel Meet?
Howie and Terry Mandel first met when they were just kids in Toronto, Canada. Their initial encounter was as ordinary as it gets—they met while waiting in line to buy french fries at a concession stand. Howie humorously recalls that he borrowed money from Terry to pay for his fries. This seemingly trivial event marked the beginning of their lifelong relationship.
When Did They Start Dating?
Although they met in their early teens, Terry initially rejected Howie’s advances. It wasn’t until they were 19 that Terry agreed to go on a date with Howie. Their first date was a memorable one, marked by an adventure in Howie’s mother’s car that almost ended in disaster due to bad weather. Despite this rocky start, their relationship flourished.
How Did Howie Propose to Terry?
Howie’s proposal to Terry was as unique as their relationship. While sitting in a deli, Howie placed a loose diamond on the table and casually told Terry she could make a ring if she wanted. This unconventional proposal suited their non-romantic personalities perfectly. Howie has often joked about his lack of romantic gestures, including the time he brought home flowers from a set, to which Terry responded by asking where he got them.
How Has Humor Played a Role in Their Marriage?
Humor has always been a cornerstone of Howie and Terry’s relationship. Howie has often said that Terry’s wit was one of the things that attracted him to her. Their shared sense of humor has helped them navigate the ups and downs of marriage. They even spent part of their honeymoon at a comedy club, where Howie performed and explained to the audience that it was their honeymoon show.
What Are Some of Their Most Memorable Moments?
One particularly memorable moment was a birthday surprise that Howie planned for Terry. Knowing her love for animals, Howie rented an elephant for her birthday. However, the surprise did not go as planned. The elephant caused significant damage to their property, leading Howie to joke that it was the “saddest party ever.”
Another humorous incident involved Howie hiding a piece of Terry’s jigsaw puzzles during the COVID-19 pandemic, just to see her reaction. This playful dynamic highlights the lighthearted nature of their relationship.
How Many Children Do They Have?
The Mandels have three children: a son, Alex, born in 1989, and two daughters, Jackie and Riley, born in 1984 and 1992, respectively. Their daughter Jackie has publicly shared her struggles with anxiety and OCD, conditions she shares with her father. Howie has been open about his mental health struggles, and the family has been a source of support for each other.
What Are Terry’s Professional Accomplishments?
Terry Mandel is not just known as Howie’s wife; she is a talented professional in her own right. She has worked as a talent agent and television producer. Terry was an associate producer for the 1985 TV special “Howie Mandel: Live from Carnegie Mall.” Additionally, she co-owns The Abstract Talent Agency in Los Angeles with Howie. It was Terry who encouraged Howie to take the hosting job for “Deal or No Deal,” a decision that significantly boosted his career.
How Has Terry Supported Howie Through His Mental Health Struggles?
Howie has credited Terry and their children with being his anchors during his battles with severe anxiety and OCD. Terry’s support has been crucial, especially during the times when Howie was so fearful of germs that he had a guest house built to stay in when family members were sick. It was Terry who ultimately gave Howie an ultimatum to seek help, which led him to therapy and medication.
What Is the Secret to Their Long-Lasting Marriage?
Howie often jokes that the secret to their long marriage is that Terry doesn’t speak or understand English. In reality, their marriage thrives on mutual support, humor, and a deep understanding of each other’s quirks and needs. Their ability to laugh together and support each other through thick and thin has been the cornerstone of their relationship.
What Is Their Life Like Today?
Today, Howie and Terry enjoy their roles as grandparents to Jackie’s children, Abbey and Axel. Despite the challenges they have faced, their love and commitment to each other remain strong. Howie continues to entertain audiences worldwide, while Terry supports him behind the scenes and manages their family life.
Conclusion
Howie and Terry Mandel’s love story is a testament to enduring love and partnership. From their humble beginnings in Toronto to their life in the spotlight, they have navigated the highs and lows of marriage with humor and resilience. Their story is a reminder that true love can withstand the test of time, especially when built on a foundation of mutual respect, support, and a shared sense of humor.