Wink Martindale, Iconic Game Show Host, Passed Away at 91

Wink Martindale, Iconic Game Show Host, Passed Away At 91 (IMG Source: foxtv.com)

Wink Martindale, the iconic game show host known for his work on Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and High Rollers, has passed away at the age of 91. Martindale died on April 15, 2025, at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California, following a year-long battle with lymphoma. His death marks the end of an era for American television, where he became a beloved figure known for his warm personality and smooth baritone voice.

Martindale’s career spanned over seven decades, beginning in radio at the young age of 17. Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he went on to become one of television’s most recognized hosts. His rise to fame came in the 1970s when he began hosting Gambit in 1972, a game show that aired alongside The Price is Right and The Joker’s Wild. Martindale’s engaging hosting style quickly endeared him to audiences, leading to his later success with Tic-Tac-Dough, where a contestant, Thom McKee, set a record with an 88-game winning streak.

Beyond his work on game shows, Martindale had a brief but notable music career. In 1959, his spoken-word hit “Deck of Cards” reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. He also worked as a producer and hosted several radio programs, including The 100 Greatest Christmas Hits of All Time and The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll. His career was marked by a diverse range of contributions to the entertainment world, from radio to television to music.

Martindale’s legacy as a television personality was not only defined by his hosting work but also by his warm and friendly demeanor. His ability to connect with contestants and viewers alike made him a beloved figure for generations. He was also known for his deep connection to Elvis Presley, having given Presley his first radio interview in 1954, a moment that became part of television history.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandra, as well as three daughters and several grandchildren. Martindale was predeceased by his son, Wink Jr. His family described him as a loving father and husband, and his contributions to American entertainment will be remembered fondly.

Martindale’s passing leaves a void in the world of game shows, but his impact on the television landscape will live on. His career set the standard for future generations of hosts, and his friendly presence will be missed by many.

For more information, readers can turn to sources such as the Associated Press, Reuters, and People.