Comedian Bill Burr called out Howie Mandel after an unexpected appearance by Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan during an episode of Howie Mandel Does Stuff.
The January 21 podcast featured a heated exchange after Mandel surprised Burr with Corgan, who shared an awkward story about being told they might be half-brothers.
“You’re an a—hole,” Burr, 56, said to Mandel after Corgan, 57, joined mid-interview. Mandel admitted he thought it would be “a good surprise,” but Burr clearly disagreed, asking if the segment could be edited out.
The controversy stems from a past comment by Corgan's stepmother, who suggested Burr might be one of her late husband’s illegitimate children, based on their striking resemblance. During the podcast, Burr criticized Mandel’s motives, accusing him of prioritizing ratings over respect. “He’s bringing you in here, not because he’s trying to heal the bulls—t that we went through growing up,” Burr said.
Corgan, who initially believed Mandel was aware of the story, revealed that Mandel encouraged him to share it on air after a private conversation. “He said, ‘Oh, you’ve got to say this on the air,’” Corgan explained.
While Burr expressed no ill will toward Corgan, he admitted the incident brought back painful memories of his father. “It’s not that I don’t like him; it reminds me of all of that s–t,” Burr said.
Corgan clarified that he does not believe they are related, adding, “There are just people in the world that look alike.”
The ambush left Burr frustrated, with the comedian calling the situation a “ratings stunt.” Mandel has yet to respond publicly.
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