Game show host known for TV dies at home

Wink Martindale, a prominent game-show host, passed away at the age of 91 in his Rancho Mirage residence. Having hosted over 20 television game shows throughout his career spanning five decades, Martindale was best known for shows like “Tic-Tac-Dough,” “High Rollers,” and “Trivial Pursuit.”

Born as Winston Conrad Martindale in Tennessee in 1933, Martindale kickstarted his broadcasting journey as a disc jockey in Jackson, Tennessee, at a young age of 17, subsequently moving to WHBQ in Memphis. He played a pivotal role in rock n’ roll history by facilitating Elvis Presley’s first radio interview after airing the singer’s debut record “That’s All Right” in 1954. Relocating to Los Angeles in 1959, Martindale worked at various radio stations such as KHJ, KRLA, KFWB, KGIL, KKGO, KMPC, KABC, and KJQI.

His television career commenced while still in Memphis, hosting children’s programs like “Mars Patrol” and “Teenage Dance Party,” where Elvis Presley also made an appearance in 1956. Martindale’s breakthrough came in 1964 when he landed the hosting role on NBC’s “What’s This Song?,” leading to a series of other hosting opportunities on shows like “Words and Music,” “Gambit,” “The Last Word,” “Instant Recall,” and the iconic “Tic-Tac-Dough,” which he hosted for nearly a decade until 1985. Post his tenure on “Tic-Tac-Dough,” he collaborated with Merv Griffin to create and produce the game show “Headline Chasers.”

In 2006, Martindale was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to his significant contributions to the television industry. Recognized for his work, fans paid tribute to him by placing flowers on his star following the news of his passing.

Survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale, a sister named Geraldine, and daughters named Lisa, Lyn, and Laura, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Martindale leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the world of game shows and television hosting.

Wink Martindale’s impact on the entertainment industry will forever be remembered, as he remains a beloved figure among fans of game shows and television hosts. His charisma, talent, and dedication to his craft have solidified his status as an icon in the realm of television hosting.