Joe Manganiello: A Passionate Movie Buff with an Obsession for Anora
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When he’s not on the Banker’s Island, Joe Manganiello is taking the opportunity to broaden his cinematic horizons.
The host of Deal or No Deal Island, 48, reveals in the latest edition of Us Weekly’s What I’m Obsessed With series that he’s currently fascinated by the film “Anora.” He adds, “I have a great appreciation for Sean Baker’s work.”
Manganiello isn’t alone in his admiration for Baker; Anora secured five awards at the 2025 Academy Awards. Baker made history by being the first director to win four categories for a single film, taking home trophies for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, and Best Picture. The movie’s star, Mikey Madison, won Best Actress for her portrayal of the lead.
Manganiello’s passion for cinema extends beyond just watching films. His podcast preferences mirror his love for movies.
“I’m a big fan of ‘The Rewatchables,’” he expressed. “As you might expect, I’m a massive movie enthusiast.”
“The Rewatchables” is a podcast hosted by The Ringer founder Bill Simmons. Each episode focuses on a film, with Simmons, 55, delving deeply into its accolades and enduring legacy. He typically invites various guests from The Ringer’s extended family to join him.
“I appreciate the discussions and excitement of that group,” Manganiello remarked about Simmons’ rapport with his guests.
Outside of film, Manganiello’s interests extend to music, literature, and television. His favorite album is Tool’s Fear Inoculum, which he has been listening to consistently since its release five years ago.
“I’ve made sure to listen to this rock album every week since it dropped in 2019,” he stated.
As for reading material, his top pick is the self-help book The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture.
“This book should be required reading for every doctor in the Western Hemisphere,” he emphasized.
Joe Manganiello on Deal or No Deal Island
For his television viewing, Manganiello is eager to recommend his own show — Deal or No Deal Island. The reality competition series, affectionately dubbed DONDI by fans, is currently in its second season. Manganiello is thrilled to see the current season exceed even the first.
“DONDI is very strategy-oriented and favors competitive players,” he noted about the series. “It requires participants to quickly discern significant shifts in strategy and react decisively.”
Although Manganiello doesn’t get to play The Banker’s game, he has given thought to what he would do if he had the chance.
“If I knew I was being targeted, I’d want to take control instead of relying on someone else to play my game,” he confided to Us. “But you also have to trust that your social strategies were sufficient and that the person playing The Banker won’t choose you.”
Deal or No Deal Island airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and is available for streaming on Peacock the following day.
For more about Manganiello, check out the latest issue of Us Weekly, now on stands.
