LOS ANGELES — Leave it to Howie Mandel to turn a simple handshake into a full-on hazmat operation.
The “Deal or No Deal” funnyman, famous for his crippling OCD and germophobia, suited up like he was entering a Level 4 bio lab to greet 21-year-old OnlyFans sensation Sophie Rain, complete with long green rubber gloves and a giant plexiglass barrier between them.
In a clip that exploded across social media with millions of views, Mandel stood safely behind his COVID-era shield on his “Howie Mandel Does Stuff” podcast as Rain reached through for the world’s most awkward greeting.“It is such a pleasure to meet Sophie Rain, ladies and gentlemen. Through the plexiglass,” Mandel quipped, clearly proud of his elaborate setup. “And who is your OnlyFan? Howie Mandel! I’m her Only Fan!”
Rain, smiling through the whole bizarre exchange, later gushed on Instagram that she “loved meeting” the comedian.
Mandel, who’s been brutally open about his condition for years, including shaving his head to avoid “bacteria” and popularizing the fist-bump on national TV, has long avoided direct contact with strangers. This time, the precautions hit different because of Rain’s day job.
