**Howie Mandel Supports Meghan Markle’s Candid Remarks on Feeling Objectified as a Briefcase Lady**

Howie Mandel, the renowned host of the popular game show Deal or No Deal, has come forward in defense of Meghan Markle's bold statements regarding her experience as a briefcase lady on his show back in 2006.

Mandel, aged 66, expressed his understanding of Markle's feelings, revealing that he too felt objectified during his time on the program.

The controversy arose after Markle, now 40 years old, disclosed feeling reduced to a mere object of beauty rather than being valued for her intellect while working on the show.

Mandel, who helmed Deal or No Deal from 2005 to 2009 and again during its relaunch in 2018-2019, empathized with Markle's sentiments, acknowledging that he also grappled with similar emotions of being treated as a mere spectacle.

In a recent interview with Us Weekly, Mandel candidly shared his own experience of feeling like a “piece of meat” surrounded by a group of women, drawing parallels to Markle's revelations.

He recounted the discomfort of being the center of attention, emphasizing the need for recognition beyond mere physical appearance, which eventually led him to explore other avenues such as becoming a judge on America's Got Talent.

Reflecting on Markle's assertions, Mandel highlighted the inherent challenges of being in a setting where one's worth is overshadowed by superficial attributes.

He pointed out the underlying issue of being pigeonholed into a stereotype, resonating with Markle's desire for more substantial recognition and opportunities beyond the confines of external appearances.

Markle, who appeared on multiple episodes of Deal or No Deal's second season, openly discussed her decision to depart from the show due to feeling objectified and undervalued for her capabilities.

She bravely addressed the pressures she faced to conform to certain aesthetic standards, including undergoing procedures like padding bras and wearing false eyelashes, which reinforced the emphasis on physical attractiveness over intellectual prowess.

The former briefcase lady's revelations sparked a wave of reactions from fellow cast members, with some, like Patricia Cara, vehemently refuting Markle's claims of undergoing extreme beauty modifications backstage.

Patricia, who featured prominently on the show throughout its run, contradicted Markle's narrative, asserting that such practices were not a part of the show's routine.

Markle's candid account sheds light on the complexities of navigating spaces where individuals are often judged based on external attributes rather than their intrinsic qualities.

Her determination to instill values of intelligence and self-worth in her daughter, Lilibet, underscores a broader societal conversation on redefining standards of beauty and success beyond surface-level expectations.

In a world where appearances often overshadow substance, Markle's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of recognizing and valuing individuals for their unique talents and contributions, rather than reducing them to mere stereotypes.

As the discourse around inclusivity and empowerment continues to evolve, Markle's courage in speaking out against objectification resonates as a call for greater respect and acknowledgment of one's true worth.