Joe Manganiello Discusses Name Origins and New Career
Reflections on His Name
In a recent appearance on the Celebrity Wheel of Fortune
, Joe Manganiello opened up about his unique name and the misconceptions around it. During the show’s season 5 premiere, host Pat Sajak inquired if Manganiello had ever thought about simplifying his surname for easier pronunciation. Surprisingly, Manganiello revealed that he had previously been advised by a former manager to change it but firmly declined.
Quote and Insight
“No,” Manganiello replied. “They asked me to change my name, my former manager, and I said, ‘What do you know, people will have to learn how to pronounce and spell it out.'” He humorously added, “And we’re here in 20 years, and no one can pronounce or spell it!” This light-hearted commentary underscores both the actor’s pride in his heritage and the challenges associated with having a distinctive name.
Celebrating Italian Heritage
In addition, during his pre-show interview with Maggie Sajak, Sajak’s daughter, Manganiello engaged playfully about his name’s origins. When queried about his heritage, he teased, “From what I can say, I think my last name is Jones,” generating laughter and highlighting the light-hearted atmosphere of the show.
A Special Episode
Manganiello was joined by fellow celebrities Tiffany Haddish and Matt Walsh for a special episode of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. This particular episode was significant, as it marked Pat Sajak’s last season as host after a remarkable 43-year tenure.
Looking Ahead
As Sajak prepares for retirement, Manganiello is embarking on a new chapter. He will soon host a new game show, Deal No Deal Island, set to feature contestants competing for cash prizes on a private island. “I was waiting for the right opportunity to happen, and this was it,” he stated regarding his new role.
Conclusion
Joe Manganiello’s journey from actor to game show host showcases his versatility and commitment to embracing his identity, both on and off-screen. As he continues to make his mark in the entertainment industry, audiences can tune in to Celebrity Wheel of Fortune on Wednesdays at 8 PM on ABC.