Part 4/7:
Adding fuel to the fire, the Daily Mail reported that Howard’s close celebrity friends attempted to reach him after the news leaked. Notably, Jimmy Fallon personally tried calling Howard, but only received his voicemail. Likewise, Ally Wentworth—married to ABC's George Stephanopoulos—also attempted contact but was unsuccessful, reaching only Howard’s voicemail. Interestingly, Howard's preferred confidant, Jimmy Kimmel, was able to connect with him, and reportedly, Howard appeared stunned by the news, claiming, "This is the first I’m hearing of it now."
Howard has traditionally marketed himself as a candid, truth-telling figure. However, critics argue that his recent reactions suggest otherwise, hinting at an underlying attempt to control his narrative amid mounting media speculation.