It’s not uncommon for a comedian to tell a joke that offends in some way, big or small. When that happens, there are usually one of two reactions. Either the comedian apologizes for crossing a line and upsetting people, or the comedian makes a big deal of not apologizing for upsetting anybody. However, in the most recent case, we have a somewhat unusual situation where Howie Mandel first apologized to Kelly Ripa for a joke, and now seems to be taking back that apology.
What Happened Between Kelly Ripa And Howie Mandel?
The issue traces back to a recent appearance by Howie Mandel on Live with Kelly and Mark, in which it is brought up that Mandel recently turned 70. Ripa says that Mandel looks good, and the comedian takes issue with the compliment, indicating that looking good “for 70” isn’t a compliment. She insists that’s not what she meant, but the two go back and forth for a minute in an exchange that isn't particularly heated, but also clearly isn't funny.
The conversation has now blown up, with implications that Ripa was upset by it all. Seemingly confirming the conflict. Howie Mandel took to Instagram to issue a public apology to the host.
This isn't the first time Howie Mandel has apologized for something he said, though he's also a comedian who doesn't offend quite as often as some others. While that would normally mark the end of things, that hasn’t been the case here. The issue is apparently still eating at Mandel as he explained on a recent podcast.
Why Howie Mandel Regrets Apologizing
The alleged “conflict” between Howie Mandel and Kelly Ripa has continued to be addressed following Mandel’s apology. The comedian recently appeared on Hot Mic with Billy Bush, where he addressed the situation. He seemed a little surprised that the whole thing was still being talked about, as to him, this was just a case of a joke that didn’t land. He said…
Obviously, I told a joke that didn’t land well. Comedians always say if you can make one person laugh, you’re doing your job. But apparently that’s not enough. It’s not enough! So [Billy Bush] liked my joke, but I’m reading, there’s no stopping it. I tried to stop it. I tried to apologize.
As Mandel said in the above apology, he had struggled with the statement, as he doesn’t generally believe comedians should apologize. It’s a perspective that many other comedians have, that jokes may not work and may upset people from time to time, but that doesn’t mean apologies should be issued. He continued…
If somebody is offended, feels that I did wrong, then I apologize. I don’t believe in apologizing, but as I said in the post – I kind of regret making the post – because I don’t think that you should apologize for a joke. … I do think I look good!
Time will tell whether this is the end of the issue or if the apparent regret over the apology will result in it continuing. So, as this situation involving Mandel and Ripa continues to develop, we'll keep you posted.
