Meghan Markle’s time on *Deal or No Deal* is once again making headlines, but not for the reasons you might expect. The Duchess of Sussex recently spoke about her experience on the game show, describing it as demeaning and making her feel like a "bimbo." However, Howie Mandel, the former host of the show, had a scathing response that put Markle’s comments into perspective.
In her podcast *Archetypes*, Markle reflected on her time as a briefcase model during the 2006-2007 seasons of the hit show. Speaking to Paris Hilton, she expressed her discomfort with the role, stating that it focused purely on appearance rather than intellect.
*“I didn’t like feeling forced to be all looks,”* she said, adding that she felt *“reduced to this specific archetype—the word bimbo.”* Markle suggested that the show was structured in a way that prioritized glamor over personality, making her feel objectified rather than valued for her intelligence.
Her remarks quickly sparked debate. While some sympathized with her perspective, others questioned why she took the role in the first place if it conflicted so much with her values.
When asked about Markle’s comments, Howie Mandel didn’t hold back. The longtime *Deal or No Deal* host admitted that he had no recollection of Markle’s brief stint on the show.
Ouch. That’s the entertainment industry for you—sometimes, you’re just another face in the crowd.
Mandel acknowledged that many women worked as briefcase models, and Markle was simply one of them. *“I don’t even remember her being there,”* he reportedly told *The Independent*, emphasizing that the show wasn’t meant to provide deep, intellectual engagement but rather lighthearted entertainment.
Markle’s criticisms have ignited a broader discussion about the nature of roles in Hollywood. While she felt uncomfortable with the emphasis on beauty, others argue that the job description was clear from the start. *Deal or No Deal* was never about intellect—it was about suspense, glamor, and showbiz.
As for Mandel, his response makes one thing clear: in the fast-paced world of television, not everyone leaves a lasting impression. While Markle’s time on *Deal or No Deal* may have been a mere footnote in the show’s history, its impact on her is something she continues to reflect on to this day.
