Game Show Legend Wink Martindale Dies at 91 in California

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. — Wink Martindale, the influential television game show host known for popular programs like “Tic-Tac-Dough,” “Gambit,” and “High Rollers,” died Tuesday at the age of 91. His passing was confirmed by his publicist, who stated that Martindale died at home, surrounded by his family and his wife of 49 years, Sandra.

The iconic television personality was born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee. He began his career at a local radio station after graduating high school, earning only $25 a week at WPLI. The nickname “Wink” originated from a childhood friend’s difficulty in saying his given name. As he explained in a 2014 interview with ABC News, “When I was a kid in Jackson, Tennessee, one of my playmates couldn’t say ‘Winston’… So Winston turned into Winky, and then I got into the business and Wink it was!”

Martindale gained national attention as a host with his 1964 debut on NBC’s “What’s This Song?” and subsequently cemented his place in television history through various game shows. His most beloved role, as the charming host of “Tic-Tac-Dough,” spanned 10 years, during which the show garnered high ratings, especially when contestant Lt. Thom McKee won $312,700. Martindale reflected, “Our ratings were never as big until he came on and were never as big after he left,” demonstrating the impact that McKee’s popularity had on the show’s success.

Over a 74-year career, Martindale both hosted and produced over 20 game shows, developing a reputation not only for his engaging presence but also his well-tailored sport coats and a recognizable voice. He once joked about his extensive experience, saying, “It either means everybody wants me to do their show or I can’t hold a job.”

Martindale was also a successful recording artist, achieving notable acclaim for his spoken-word record “Deck of Cards,” which reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1959. The same year, he expanded his career by moving to Los Angeles, where he hosted several popular radio and TV programs, including the Saturday morning show “The Wink Martindale Dance Party.”n

Those who worked with him often praised his upbeat demeanor and ability to engage audiences. Martindale’s approachability endeared him to both contestants and viewers alike, contributing to his likeness as an enduring television figure. “People at home gravitate to games that they know… and when you get that, you’ve got them captured,” he once explained regarding the allure of game shows.

Born into a family of five, Martindale was heavily influenced by his experiences in radio and early aspirations to become a broadcaster. His big break came when he helped arrange for a young Elvis Presley to appear on his radio show, marking a pivotal moment in both their careers. He later recounted, “Music was changed forever” after Elvis made that first appearance.

In recognition of his impact on television, Martindale received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and induction into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame. He was also dedicated to philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as the Cerebral Palsy Foundation.

Martindale is survived by his wife, Sandra; daughters Lisa, Lyn, and Laura; sister Geraldine; his “honorary son” Eric; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His legacy as a quintessential game show host will be fondly remembered by fans and industry colleagues alike.