Tributes Pour In for Wink Martindale, Renowned Game Show Host, Who Passed Away at 91

Wink Martindale, a prominent figure in television history known for hosting popular game shows such as Gambit and Tic-Tac-Dough, has passed away at the age of 91. His death occurred on Tuesday at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California, after a courageous battle with lymphoma that lasted for a year, as confirmed by his publicist.

Martindale was a beloved personality in the entertainment industry, having made significant contributions to the world of television. He first gained fame with the launch of Gambit in September 1972, which premiered on the same day as The Price is Right and The Joker's Wild. The show quickly became a favorite, illustrating Martindale's belief in the principle of simplicity in game show design, which he often referred to as 'KISS'--Keep It Simple Stupid.

Despite the early success of Gambit, the show was eventually overshadowed by the debut of Wheel of Fortune in 1975, leading to its cancellation in 1976. However, Martindale made a triumphant return to the screen in 1978 with Tic-Tac-Dough, which aired until 1985. During this time, he notably presided over a remarkable winning streak by Navy Lt. Thom McKee, who amassed over $300,000 in prizes--a record at the time.

Martindale's background as a radio DJ greatly influenced his hosting style, allowing him to adapt and engage with contestants effectively. Throughout his extensive career, he hosted nearly two dozen game shows, a testament to his versatility and charm.

Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he discovered his passion for radio at a young age. By 17, he began his career as a disc jockey, eventually moving to prominent stations in Memphis. His early ventures in the entertainment industry included hosting morning shows and even reaching the Billboard charts with a spoken word recording.

Martindale's career was not just limited to game shows; he also made history by interviewing Elvis Presley during the early stages of Presley's career. This iconic moment solidified his status as a key player in the entertainment landscape of the time. The two maintained a connection over the years, with Martindale even conducting a trans-Atlantic interview with Presley while he was serving in the Army.

In addition to his television success, Martindale explored various avenues in radio and hosted several shows throughout his lifetime, including a revival of Gambit in Las Vegas and the nationally syndicated programs The 100 Greatest Christmas Hits of All Time and The History of Rock 'n' Roll.

Martindale is survived by his second wife, Sandy, with whom he shared 49 years of marriage, as well as his children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Wink Jr. His legacy as a game show host and television personality will undoubtedly be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.