Wink Martindale, the genial host of such hit game shows as “Gambit” and “Tic-Tac-Dough” who also did one of the first recorded television interviews with a young Elvis Presley, has died. He was 91.Martindale died Tuesday at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California, according to his publicist Brian Mayes. Martindale had been battling lymphoma for a year.
Winston Conrad “Wink” Martindale, born December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, was a legendary American disc jockey, television game show host, and producer. Known for his smooth voice, friendly demeanour, and iconic presence in broadcasting, Martindale carved out a long and successful career that spanned over six decades, influencing the world of radio and television alike.
Early Life and Radio Beginnings
Martindale's journey into entertainment began with radio. While studying at Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis), he took a job as a disc jockey at local station WHBQ. There, he witnessed a historic moment in music history: in 1954, he was present when Sam Phillips brought Elvis Presley’s first single, That’s All Right, to the station. Martindale played the record on air, helping to launch the King of Rock and Roll’s career. This moment is often considered pivotal in rock music history, and Martindale's role, though indirect, was significant.
Wink’s radio career blossomed throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He hosted a variety of shows and gained popularity for his easygoing style, sense of humour, and encyclopedic knowledge of music. His early radio presence would later pave the way for his seamless transition into television.
Television Fame and Game Show Success
Martindale's most notable contributions came through his work in television game shows. He made his TV debut in the 1950s, but it was the 1970s and 1980s when his game show legacy was truly cemented. Among his most famous hosting gigs was "Tic-Tac-Dough", which he hosted from 1978 to 1985. His confident delivery, personable style, and ability to build suspense made him a favourite among viewers.
In addition to Tic-Tac-Dough, Martindale hosted or appeared on a slew of other game shows including Gambit, Debt, High Rollers, Trivial Pursuit, The Last Word, and Shuffle. Each show showcased his ability to connect with contestants and keep audiences engaged, even when the stakes were low or the formats were unusual. Martindale's poise and charisma made him one of the most respected figures in the genre.
He was also a producer, often involved behind the scenes in developing and pitching new formats. He even launched his own production company, Wink Martindale Enterprises, through which he developed and sold various game show concepts.
Recording Career
While less well-known than his broadcasting accomplishments, Martindale also had a brief recording career. In 1959, he released a spoken-word hit called Deck of Cards, which was a patriotic monologue set to music. The song reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a best-seller, especially among older and religious listeners. It remains a quirky footnote in his career and a rare instance of a game show host breaking into the pop charts.
Later Years and Legacy
In his later years, Martindale continued to work in radio and television, often taking on hosting duties for game show retrospectives and nostalgic specials. He also embraced digital media, launching his own YouTube channel where he shares classic game show clips and stories from his long career. His distinctive voice remains a hallmark of American pop culture.
Martindale has received numerous awards for his work, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s considered one of the last of a golden generation of game show hosts who helped define American daytime television in the post-war era. While names like Bob Barker, Alex Trebek, and Gene Rayburn may be more frequently cited, Martindale's influence is just as enduring.
Personal Life
Wink has been married twice and has four children. He’s been married to his current wife, Sandy, since 1975. The couple has remained active in the entertainment world, with Sandy also working in television and fashion. In interviews, Martindale often speaks fondly of his faith, family, and the serendipity that brought him into broadcasting.
Wink Martindale was more than just a familiar face from a bygone era of television—he was a symbol of a time when TV was simpler, game shows were king, and the host was the heart of the experience. With a voice that instantly evokes nostalgia and a career that reflects the best of American broadcasting, Martindale has earned his place in the pantheon of entertainment greats.
Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model
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