Overview
- Mandel posted an Instagram video apologizing to Kelly Ripa for his tense exchange on Live with Kelly and Mark.
- He said he debated for 48 hours about posting because he believes comedians should not have to apologize for jokes.
- He noted he had never issued a public apology in his roughly 50-year career.
- He cited his long ties to Ripa and producer Michael Gelman as the reason he chose to speak.
- He conceded her compliment was fair and said he looks “fantastic” for his age, after a clip spread of him likening the praise to calling someone “smart for a stupid person.”