Why Does Howie Mandel Always Wear Sunglasses

Why Howie Mandel Always Wears Sunglasses: A Shady Tale

Ever wondered why Howie Mandel, the ever-entertaining judge from America's Got Talent, is almost always seen sporting a pair of shades? It's not just a fashion statement, folks. There's a fascinating story behind those tinted lenses.

Meet the Man Behind the Shades

Howie Mandel, born in 1955, is a Canadian comedian, actor, and television personality. You might know him from his stand-up specials, his role as Dr. Wayne Fiscus in the TV series St. Elsewhere, or his judging gig on AGT. But what you might not know is that he's been wearing sunglasses on stage and on screen for decades.

So, why the constant eye protection? Let's dive in.

OCD and Light Sensitivity

Mandel has been open about his struggles with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety. In an interview with The Guardian, he revealed that one of his many rituals involves wearing sunglasses to reduce his sensitivity to light.

"I have a thing about light," he said. "I'm very sensitive to light. I wear sunglasses at night, I wear sunglasses in the daytime. It's just something I've always done."

Sunglasses as a Comfort Blanket

For Mandel, sunglasses serve as a sort of comfort blanket, a familiar object that helps him cope with his anxiety and OCD. They're a part of his routine, a small ritual that makes him feel at ease, especially when he's performing.

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"They're like a security blanket," he told People magazine. "I feel naked without them."

Fashion Meets Function

Of course, Mandel's sunglasses also serve a practical purpose. They protect his eyes from harmful UV rays, a benefit that's especially important for someone who spends a lot of time outdoors or under bright stage lights.

And let's not forget the fashion aspect. Mandel's sunglasses are often stylish and statement-making, adding a touch of cool to his outfits. He's been known to rock everything from classic aviators to trendy wayfarers, proving that there's more to his eyewear than meets the eye.

Blue Round sunglasses worn by Howie Mandel as seen in The Kelly

Practical Tips: The Power of Sunglasses

Mandel's love for sunglasses might be rooted in his personal struggles, but there's no denying that they serve a practical purpose for everyone. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Protect your eyes: Invest in a good pair of sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
• Reduce glare: Polarized lenses can help reduce glare from reflective surfaces, making them a great choice for driving or outdoor activities.
• Express yourself: Like Mandel, you can use sunglasses to add a touch of style to your outfits. Experiment with different shapes and colors to find what works best for you.

Reflecting on the Little Things

Mandel's sunglasses are more than just a fashion choice or a practical necessity. They're a symbol of his journey with OCD and anxiety, a testament to the power of small rituals in coping with life's challenges.

So, the next time you see Howie Mandel rocking his shades, remember that there's a story behind them. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find a little inspiration to embrace your own quirks and rituals, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant they may be.

After all, as Mandel himself might say, "It's all about the little things, folks. The little things that make us who we are."