Wink Martindale, the legendary host whose name became synonymous with game show excitement, has died at age in Rancho Mirage, California. Known for his charm and quick wit, Martindale’s career spanned more than seven decades, making him one of television’s most prolific and recognizable hosts.
Martindale first captured national attention in the 1970s as the host of Gambit, a blackjack-inspired game show that quickly became a ratings hit. He cemented his legacy with Tic-Tac-Dough, which he helmed from to, overseeing some of the most memorable winning streaks in game show history. His resume also included High Rollers, Headline Chasers, and several other programs that defined the genre for generations.
Beyond television, Martindale was a successful radio DJ and even scored a spoken-word hit on the music charts. He was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in.
Martindale died surrounded by family, including his wife of years, Sandra. He had been battling lymphoma for the past year but remained active and upbeat until recent weeks. His passing marks the end of an era for game show enthusiasts, leaving behind a legacy of entertainment and generosity that touched millions of viewers.
