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Howie Mandel is living the good life now, thanks to the successful run of Deal or No Deal.  The game show has been averaging 11 million every Wednesday for this season, but Mandel has expressed some concern regarding overexposure for the program.

The Deal or No Deal host has become concerned that the program could go the way of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, whose ratings fell after being turned into a regular instead of a special show.  His apprehension comes as Deal or No Deal goes on the air thee times this week in what’s billed as What’s the Deal Week.

“Taking this show was a huge gamble," Mandel reminisced. "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire hadn’t been on [prime time] in years. I thought I could possibly be so humiliated, and it would be the end."

Mandel eventually decided to accept the gig upon the advice of his wife, Terry, who runs a women’s boutique near their home.  Good thing for him since Deal or No Deal has been the best thing to come his way in years.

"I feel so lucky," the 52-year old actor/comedian/host confessed.  "It’s the most exciting time of my life.  And it couldn’t have happened at a better time."

"I don’t think I can walk anywhere from point A to point B without someone saying, ‘Deal’ or ‘No Deal’ to me,” Mandel added, alluding to the renewed fame and recognition his hosting job has brought him.

Now, with the uncertainty that continues to loom over many television programs because of the unresolved writers’ strike, Mandel’s show will be on Monday as well as Wednesday nights, starting January 7.

One thing Mandel is vocal about are celebrities playing for charities on game shows.

"I hope that never happens," he says.  "America tunes in to see someone who has needs and hopes and dreams.  Their lives can be changed forever."

-Rosario Santiago, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: USA Today
(Image Courtesy of NBC)