Veteran TV and radio host Wink Martindale, best known for his long-running game show roles on “Gambit” and “Tic-Tac-Dough,” has passed away at the age of 91, according to multiple reports.
Martindale, born Winston Conrad Martindale, died Tuesday in Rancho Mirage, California, surrounded by his family, The Hollywood Reporter and Los Angeles Times confirmed. No cause of death has been disclosed at this time.
A spokesperson for Martindale has not yet responded to a request for comment from USA TODAY.
From Memphis DJ to Television Pioneer
Before becoming a household name, Martindale began his career in broadcasting as a disc jockey at WHBQ in Memphis, Tennessee. His transition to television came in the early 1950s when he hosted the sci-fi children’s series “Mars Patrol” on WHBQ-TV from 1953 to 1955.
He went on to host several music-themed game shows for NBC, including “What’s This Song?” and “Words and Music,” showcasing his charisma and audience appeal.
Game Show Fame with ‘Gambit’ and Beyond
Martindale’s big break came in 1972 when CBS tapped him to host “Gambit,” a blackjack-inspired game show that quickly became a hit. He led the show through its original run until 1976, then returned for a revamped Las Vegas edition on NBC from 1980 to 1981.
Throughout his career, Martindale remained a staple of American television, leaving behind a legacy of charm, wit, and enduring popularity.
