As a young boy growing up in Toronto, Howie Mandel was often caught California dreamin’—especially when the temperatures dipped into the negatives.
“Every Beach Boys song in the middle of winter made me feel like I was living on the sun-drenched coast of California,” reveals the Canadian comedy legend, who returns May 27 to judge another season of NBC’s hit variety show America’s Got Talent .
Outside of AGT, Mandel has showcased his own talents for years, proven by the stars he’s earned on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008 and Canada’s Walk of Fame, in Toronto, in 2009. After bursting onto the L.A. comedy scene in the late ‘70s, he starred in the ‘80’s drama St. Elsewhere, headlined the hit animated show Bobby’s World, scored an Emmy nomination for hosting Deal or No Deal, and wrote a bestselling memoir, Here’s the Deal: Don't Touch Me.
These days, Mandel is still touring, releasing comedy albums, hosting his Howie Mandel Does Stuff podcast, and loving every minute in California with his wife Terry. Here, he shares all that keeps him happily dreaming about the Golden State as a local.
Where do you live? I live in Marina del Rey.
Why there? I’m a big fan of boats, and this place is perfect for that. The weather is great, and honestly, being on the water just feels right. It’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Who or what is your greatest California love? Well, that’s my wife. My wife lives here in California, and she's my greatest California love. And my kids, they’re California kids.
But if I’m being honest, it’s being on a boat off the coast of California. That’s why I live in Marina del Rey. I can just get out on the water any time I want.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? The biggest misconception about Californians is that we’re all super laid-back, with a relaxed, easygoing attitude where everyone takes their time. But I think most people would quickly realize that this stereotype isn’t entirely accurate once they’ve lived here for a while.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? Hmm, that’s a tough one. But maybe, like, the “surfer dude” stereotype? You know, those guys are really like that. It’s not just a punch line, it’s their whole culture.
They talk like that, they’ve got their own slang—it’s like they have their own language. It's not some caricature, it’s just their way of life. It’s legit.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? A boat! Yep, I bought a boat. I mean, what says “I’m from California” more than cruising around on a boat? By far the best purchase I’ve made.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I love taking Highway 1 north up to San Francisco. There are so many amazing spots along the way—like Hearst Castle, Pebble Beach, and The Madonna Inn. There’s just so much to see, and the views along the coast! That's the best drive in the history of drives.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? That’s simple. A fish taco. My favorite spot is Malibu Seafood. The tacos are packed with flavor and always fresh. They have a nice patio. It’s just a great atmosphere with an even better view.
What is your favorite way to play in California? Anything outside. The weather’s usually perfect, and there’s always something to do. Hiking, biking, surfing. Everything is better when you’re outside in California.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? I really enjoy Malibu. Everything from the little boutiques to high-end shopping, it’s all there along the beautiful Gold Coast. Something about it just feels more relaxed and you can always find unique products.
Best California song? Easy—anything by The Beach Boys. When I was a kid growing up in Toronto, every Beach Boys song in the middle of winter made me feel like I was living on the sun-drenched coast of California. And let me tell you, when it’s minus 20 degrees in Toronto, that is a serious escape from reality. It’s like I was cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in my mind, while actually wearing five layers of clothing. The Beach Boys made me feel like I was living the California dream.
How would your California dream day unfold? Oh, it’s simple. I wake up, roll out of bed, and head straight to the beach. I’m talking beach, not just “by the beach.”’I’d park myself on a boat deck, and you know what I’d do? Absolutely nothing. That’s right. My perfect day is doing nothing—because in California, less is definitely more. But let’s be real—I’d eat. I’d have my fish tacos, and you know what? I’d have them again. And again. Three meals of fish tacos. I’m living the dream! Just eating, doing nothing, and watching the sunset like I’m in a movie. See, here’s the thing: In any other state, I’m looking for stuff to do. But in California? I just want to luxuriate in what is California.