Remembering Wink Martindale: Beloved Game Show Host and Elvis Presley’s Early Interviewer Passes Away at 91

Wink Martindale, the beloved game show host known for "Gambit" and "Tic-Tac-Dough," has passed away at 91. His publicist confirmed that Martindale died after a year-long battle with lymphoma.

Martindale first graced television screens in September 1972, debuting "Gambit" on the same day as "The Price is Right" with Bob Barker. He famously wrote in his memoir, "From the day it hit the air, ‘Gambit’ spelled winner.” His philosophy for a successful game show? Keep it simple.

Despite its early success, "Gambit" faced tough competition, particularly from "Wheel of Fortune," which premiered in 1975. By late 1976, "Gambit" went off the air, while "Wheel of Fortune" became a long-standing favorite. Still, Martindale bounced back with "Tic-Tac-Dough," which aired until 1985 and saw contestants winning record amounts, including over $300,000 in cash and prizes during a memorable winning streak.

Martindale’s warm presence and knack for engaging with contestants made him a cherished figure in television. He estimated he hosted nearly two dozen game shows in his lifetime, drawing on his early experience as a radio DJ. His career began at a local station in Tennessee, and he quickly moved on to larger markets, showcasing his talent on shows like "Top Ten Dance Party," where he interviewed a young Elvis Presley.

Reflecting on his life, Martindale often recounted how radio helped him think on his feet, a skill vital for game show hosting. In his memoir, he humorously noted that many people would ask if "Wink" was his real name, which was actually a childhood nickname.

Martindale was also an accomplished musician, reaching number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with his spoken word track, "Deck of Cards." He appeared on "The Ed Sullivan Show," marking a milestone in his multi-faceted career.

In recent years, Martindale returned to radio, hosting programs that celebrated classic hits and the history of rock and roll. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting impact, influencing both contestants and audiences alike.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy, and three daughters, as well as numerous grandchildren. Martindale’s legacy in the world of game shows is undeniable, and his friendly demeanor will be missed by fans everywhere.

If you want to dive deeper into Wink Martindale’s career and legacy, the Television Academy Foundation offers a wealth of resources on influential figures like him.

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