We've all seen Howie's aversion to handshakes for years now, in fact, we don't even really bat an eye anymore. Fist bumps are commonplace. The other day, I saw an old Johnny Carson show, back from 1984, where Howie was one of the guests. I was shocked when he came out and had no problems shaking Johnny's and Ed's hand. No hesitation, no wiping the germs off afterwards, even secretly. At the end of the episode, he shook hands with all the other guests, as well as Ed and Johnny again.
Now I want to know what happened to Howie to make his germaphobia appear? Did he always have it, and was just forced to buck up during these appearances? Finally, one day, he decided that he was big enough that he didn't have to pretend anymore? Or did something happen? I find this fascinating. Anyone have any ideas?