Howie Mandel, a celebrated comedian and television host, boasts a net worth of $60 million at the age of 68. He and his wife, Terry Mandel (née Soil), have a love story that spans decades, deeply rooted in their childhood. Married for over 40 years since March 16, 1980, the couple has built a life filled with laughter, family, and shared experiences. This article delves into the heartwarming journey of Howie and Terry Mandel, highlighting their enduring partnership and the milestones they’ve celebrated together.
A Childhood Romance
Howie and Terry’s story began in Toronto, Canada, where they both grew up. They attended William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute and first met at a local YMCA concession stand while waiting to buy French fries. Howie humorously recalls borrowing money from Terry, a moment that marked the start of their lifelong connection. Despite Terry initially rejecting his advances, Howie persisted, and the two eventually started dating in their late teens.
Their first date, a trip to the movie theater, almost ended in disaster when Howie’s car hit an ice patch. However, their bond only grew stronger, leading to a memorable proposal at a deli where Howie casually presented Terry with a loose diamond.
Building a Family
The couple has three children: a son, Alex, born in 1989, and two daughters, Jackie and Riley, born in 1984 and 1992, respectively. Howie and Terry’s parenting journey has been marked by openness about mental health, a topic close to Howie due to his own struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Jackie, who shares her father’s challenges, credits Howie for his transparency and support in seeking therapy.
In addition to their children, Howie and Terry are proud grandparents to Jackie’s kids, Abbey and Axel. The family shares a close-knit bond, often celebrated through Howie’s social media posts, which highlight the joy and love they share.
Creative Collaborations and Career Milestones
Terry Mandel is a talent agent and television producer who has worked alongside Howie on various projects. She was an associate producer on the 1985 TV special “Howie Mandel: Live from Carnegie Mall.” The couple also owns The Abstract Talent Agency in Los Angeles, showcasing their collaborative spirit in the entertainment industry.
One of the most significant moments in Howie’s career was his role as the host of “Deal or No Deal,” a decision heavily influenced by Terry. Despite Howie’s initial reluctance, Terry convinced him to take the job, which became a defining part of his career.
A Life Filled with Humor
Humor has always been a cornerstone of Howie and Terry’s relationship. Howie often jokes about their marriage, attributing its longevity to Terry’s supposed lack of English comprehension and their mutual non-romantic nature. Their honeymoon, spent at a comedy club, epitomizes their shared sense of humor.
One memorable anecdote involves Howie renting an elephant for Terry’s birthday, a gesture that, while well-intentioned, resulted in substantial property damage. This incident, among others, highlights the couple’s ability to find laughter even in unexpected situations.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Howie Mandel’s battle with anxiety and OCD has profoundly impacted his life and marriage. Terry has been a steadfast support system, helping him navigate his mental health challenges. Howie’s openness about his struggles and his journey to seek help reflect the couple’s commitment to each other and their family.
In a 2020 interview, Howie shared a humorous prank he played on Terry during the COVID-19 pandemic, hiding puzzle pieces to watch her reaction. This lighthearted approach underscores their ability to find joy and connection through humor, even during difficult times.
Conclusion
Howie and Terry Mandel’s love story is a testament to enduring partnership and the power of humor in sustaining a relationship. From their teenage romance to their current life filled with family and laughter, they have navigated life’s ups and downs together. With Howie’s successful career and Terry’s unwavering support, their journey continues to inspire and bring joy to those around them. As they celebrate over four decades of marriage, Howie and Terry Mandel remain a beloved and iconic couple in the world of entertainment.
