In a recent appearance on David Letterman‘s talk show, popular game show host Howie Mandel revealed some surprising details about his life as a germaphobe. Mandel, known for hosting shows like Deal or No Deal, opened up about his struggles with OCD and his fear of germs.
Mandel, who hadn’t been on Letterman’s show since the mid-80s, shared how his OCD and germaphobia have affected his daily life. He admitted that he hasn’t shaken hands with anyone in the past five years and even demonstrated his unique way of greeting people to avoid germs.
During the interview, Mandel humorously explained the challenges he faces as a germaphobe. He spoke about the awkwardness of people extending their hand for a handshake and not letting go, leaving him in an uncomfortable position. He also shared his concerns about the swine flu and how he has been extra cautious due to his OCD.
While Mandel’s germaphobia may seem extreme to some, he revealed that he has been seeking therapy for a long time and has even tried medication. Mandel, who is known for his candidness, admitted that he still struggles but is doing his best to manage his condition.
The talk show appearance also served as an opportunity for Mandel to promote his upcoming book, “Here’s the Deal: Don’t Touch Me.” While it may sound odd for a book to be promoted before its release, Mandel humorously mentioned that it was a tactic from his publishers to generate pre-orders.
Despite his OCD and germaphobia, Mandel continues to find success in the entertainment industry. He mentioned his upcoming season of Deal or No Deal, which is set to begin on September 7th. Fans can look forward to seeing him in action and can check their local listings for the show’s air time.
In conclusion, Howie Mandel‘s appearance on David Letterman‘s talk show shed light on his struggles as a germaphobe. His honest and humorous approach to discussing his OCD and fear of germs made for an entertaining and enlightening interview. Mandel’s ability to navigate his condition while still pursuing a successful career serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
