Wink Martindale, a legendary figure in American television and radio, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91 in Rancho Mirage, California.
Renowned for his warm charm and smooth delivery, Martindale hosted iconic game shows like Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and Headline Chasers, leaving an indelible mark on entertainment. Surrounded by family, including his wife of 49 years, Sandra, his legacy as a broadcaster and cultural icon endures.
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, Wink began his career at 17 as a DJ. By 1954, at Memphis’s WHBQ, he arranged Elvis Presley’s first radio interview, which shaped music history. His radio work included hits like Your Hit Parade and a 1959 spoken-word single, Deck of Cards, which hit No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a gold record.
The entire Game Show Network family mourns the loss of Wink Martindale, the host of the original "Tic-Tac-Dough" and a true legend of television game shows. His charm and presence lit up the screen for generations of viewers and he will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/DNqLToCv5r
— Game Show Network (@GameShowNetwork) April 15, 2025Martindale’s television journey started with children’s shows like Mars Patrol and Teenage Dance Party, on which Elvis later appeared. His game show career took off with What’s This Song? NBC in 1964, followed by 19 more, including Words and Music, High Rollers, and Tic-Tac-Dough (1978–1985). Only Bill Cullen hosted more game shows. Wink also created and produced Headline Chasers, showcasing his versatility.
Martindale’s voice remained a radio staple, narrating The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll and 100 Greatest Christmas Hits. In later years, he made memorable TV appearances on The Howard Stern Show, The Bold and the Beautiful, and The Eric Andre Show, as well as commercials for Orbitz and KFC.
Game Show host Wink Martindale — known for ‘Tic-Tac-Dough,’ ‘High Rollers’ and ‘Gambit’ — dead at 91 https://t.co/C8zAFFyJvE pic.twitter.com/de15oKjBmZ
— New York Post (@nypost) April 15, 2025Martindale’s family, including daughters Lisa, Lyn, and Laura, sister Geraldine, and many grandchildren, mourns his loss while celebrating his contributions. Per their request, the cause of death remains private. Fans and peers remember Wink for his charisma and ability to connect with audiences, from game show contestants to radio listeners.
