Entertainment
Iconic Game Show Host Passes Away At 91
Wink Martindale, the legendary game show host whose voice and presence became fixtures of American television for decades, has died at the age of 91.
A spokesperson for his family confirmed he passed away Tuesday in Rancho Mirage, California, surrounded by loved ones and his wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale. No cause of death was provided.
He was “surrounded by family and his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale,” according to Deadline. Martindale hosted some of TV’s most recognizable game shows, including Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and High Rollers, during a career in radio and television that spanned more than 70 years.
His early years in radio placed him at the center of a cultural turning point. While working at WHBQ in Memphis, Martindale was present when Elvis Presley’s debut single “That’s All Right” was played for the first time in 1954.
Crystal Gayle and Wink Martindale at the Ceremony honoring Crystal Gayle with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Vine Street, Hollywood, CA. 10-02-09
Two years later, Martindale interviewed Presley on television, and the two remained friends throughout their lives.
In 1959, Martindale crossed over into music himself, releasing the spoken-word hit “Deck of Cards,” which climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and sold over a million copies. But it was television where he made his biggest mark.
LOS ANGELES – FEB 2: Wink Martindale, Sandy Ferra Martindale at the 26th MovieGuide Awards at the Universal Hilton Hotel on February 2, 2018 in Universal City, CA
Martindale’s game show career began in the 1960s and exploded in popularity in the 1970s and ‘80s. He became a household name hosting CBS’s Gambit in 1972 and then Tic-Tac-Dough from 1978 to 1985. On the latter, he oversaw one of the most iconic winning streaks in game show history—88 straight victories by contestant Thom McKee.
Across his career, Martindale hosted nearly two dozen game shows and developed several others through his production company, Wink Martindale Enterprises. Notable titles include Headline Chasers, Debt, and Instant Recall.
Wink Martindale at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 50th Anniversary Gala, Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills, CA 01-07-12
Even into his later years, he stayed active with a return to radio in 2012 for The 100 Greatest Christmas Hits of All Time, and he hosted The History of Rock ’n’ Roll in 2021. He also connected with fans via YouTube on his channel “Wink’s Vault,” sharing vintage game show clips.
In recognition of his enduring impact, Martindale was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007.
He was married to Madelyn Leech from 1954 to 1972, with whom he had four children, before marrying Sandy Ferra in 1975. Martindale was also known for his strong Christian faith, often referencing it in interviews and speeches.
Martindale leaves behind his daughters—Lisa, Lyn, and Laura—along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his “honorary” son, Eric, and his beloved Chihuahua, Dude.
