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What started as a lighthearted TV moment has turned into a lingering regret for Howie Mandel.
The veteran comedian is now reconsidering his decision to apologize to Kelly Ripa after their uncomfortable exchange on Live With Kelly and Mark. While Mandel initially attempted to smooth things over, he now says the apology doesn't sit right with him.
Speaking during a recent interview, Mandel made it clear that apologizing for jokes isn't something he typically stands behind. "I said sorry because I thought it was the right move in the moment," he explained, "but looking back, I'm not sure I agree with that anymore."
The situation began when Ripa and co-host Mark Consuelos complimented Mandel on his youthful appearance at age 70. Instead of embracing the praise, Mandel challenged it, suggesting the comment carried an unintended implication. The remark drew laughs in the studio—but sparked mixed reactions online.
According to Mandel, the joke simply missed its mark. "That happens," he said. "You go out there trying to be funny, and sometimes it just doesn't connect the way you expect."
As criticism grew, Mandel attempted to de-escalate things with a public apology, noting his long-standing relationship with Ripa as a key reason. Still, he admits the response that followed caught him off guard.
"I didn't think it would keep going like this," he said. "Once people start reacting, it builds fast."
Despite the noise, Mandel maintains there was no ill intent behind his words and says he hopes the situation fades sooner rather than later. At the same time, the experience has pushed him to reflect on how comedy is received in a more reactive, online-driven environment.
Even so, he hasn't completely lost his sense of humor. Leaning into the original topic, Mandel added with a shrug, "At the end of the day, I think I look pretty good—and I'm fine with that."
