Howie Mandel, the renowned comedian and television host, has been married to his wife, Terry Mandel (née Soil), for over 40 years. Their journey from childhood sweethearts to a happily married couple is filled with laughter, love, and shared milestones. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of Howie and Terry Mandel’s enduring relationship.
From French Fries to Forever
Howie and Terry’s story began in Toronto, Canada, where they were both born and raised. They first met as children at the William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute. Their initial encounter was serendipitous and memorable—while waiting in line to buy french fries, Howie found himself short on money. A young Terry lent him the needed cash, a gesture that started their lifelong connection. Reflecting on this moment during an appearance on “Today with Hoda & Jenna,” Howie humorously remarked, “She was, like, 14 at the time and she lent me money. And I’ve been paying her back ever since.”
High School Sweethearts and Early Courtship
Although they attended the same high school, Terry initially rejected Howie’s advances. It wasn’t until they were 19 that they went on their first date, which nearly ended in disaster due to icy weather conditions. Despite the challenges, their bond grew stronger, and Howie’s persistence paid off. In a candid interview, Howie shared that their first date took place at a movie theater, a modest yet significant beginning to their romance.
A Unique Proposal and Unconventional Romance
Howie’s proposal to Terry was anything but traditional. While sitting in a deli, he presented her with a loose diamond and told her to make a ring if she wanted to. This unromantic yet charming gesture encapsulates their relationship, which is grounded in humor and mutual understanding. Howie and Terry married on March 16, 1980, and their wedding celebrations were equally unconventional. They spent part of their honeymoon at Yuk Yuk’s, a comedy club, due to financial constraints and Howie’s work commitments.
Building a Family Together
The couple’s life together has been marked by numerous milestones, including the births of their three children: daughters Jackie (born in 1984) and Riley (born in 1992), and son Alex (born in 1989). Their daughter Jackie, who shares her father’s struggles with anxiety and OCD, has often spoken about the support and openness within their family regarding mental health.
Professional and Personal Collaborations
Terry has not only been a supportive partner but also a collaborator in Howie’s professional ventures. She is a talent agent and television producer, contributing to several of Howie’s projects. One notable instance is when Terry encouraged Howie to take the hosting role for “Deal or No Deal,” a decision that significantly boosted his career. Howie has often credited Terry’s judgment, stating, “My wife told me to take the deal, and I took the deal.”
Humor and Resilience: The Pillars of Their Marriage
Humor has always been a cornerstone of Howie and Terry’s relationship. Howie often jokes about their life together, such as the time he rented an elephant for Terry’s birthday, only for it to cause significant property damage. Despite these humorous mishaps, their shared sense of humor has helped them navigate life’s ups and downs. Howie’s playful pranks on Terry, like hiding puzzle pieces during the pandemic, reflect their lighthearted approach to marriage.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Howie’s battle with severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder has been a significant challenge in their marriage. However, Terry’s unwavering support has been instrumental in helping him cope. Howie credits Terry and their children for being his anchor during tough times. He candidly shared that Terry once gave him an ultimatum to seek help, which became a turning point in his mental health journey.
A Lasting Legacy of Love
Throughout their decades-long marriage, Howie and Terry have built a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. They are now grandparents to Jackie’s children, Abbey and Axel, adding another layer of joy to their lives. Howie’s candid discussions about his mental health struggles and the importance of family support have resonated with many, highlighting the strength and unity within the Mandel family.
In conclusion, Howie and Terry Mandel’s love story is a testament to the power of humor, resilience, and unwavering support. From their humble beginnings to their shared professional successes, their relationship continues to inspire and entertain. As Howie often says, the sunshine of his family’s love is worth all the challenges, making their journey together truly remarkable.
