Wink Martindale, a legendary figure in the realm of game shows and an iconic radio personality, has sadly passed away at the remarkable age of 91. He was well-known for his engaging roles as the host of popular game shows such as Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and High Rollers, captivating audiences across the United States for many decades. As news spreads, many fans and followers are eager to uncover the details surrounding the death of Wink Martindale and celebrate his extraordinary legacy.

Here’s a comprehensive update regarding the circumstances surrounding Wink Martindale’s passing.

Wink Martindale Passes Away at 91: Details from Reports

Wink Martindale, a revered game show host and radio personality, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91 in Rancho Mirage, California, as confirmed by his publicist, Brian Mayes. This information has been reported by various news outlets, including NBC News. Mayes shared that Martindale was in good health until just a few weeks prior to his passing, leaving many to wonder about the circumstances surrounding his unexpected death, as no official cause has yet been disclosed.

Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he embarked on his career as a disc jockey at the tender age of 17. His journey began at WHBQ in Memphis, where he made a significant mark by being present when DJ Dewey Phillips debuted Elvis Presley’s first single, “That’s All Right.” In a remarkable act of initiative, Martindale contacted Elvis’s mother, facilitating Elvis Presley’s very first radio interview, which would cement his legacy in music history.

Martindale achieved early acclaim with the 1959 spoken-word single “Deck of Cards,” which soared to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart. His successful trajectory led him to Los Angeles that same year, where he worked with several prestigious radio stations, including KHJ, KRLA, KFWB, and KMPC, further establishing his reputation in the entertainment industry.

Transitioning seamlessly from radio to television, Martindale hosted popular shows such as Mars Patrol and Teenage Dance Party in Memphis. His game show career took off in 1964 when he hosted NBC’s What’s This Song?, paving the way for a series of successful shows including Words and Music, Gambit, High Rollers, and his most notable program, Tic-Tac-Dough, which he expertly hosted until 1985.

Throughout his illustrious career, Martindale hosted or made guest appearances on over 20 game shows, showcasing his versatility and charm. He also served as a producer on shows like Headline Chasers alongside Merv Griffin and King World. In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and received a Beale Street Note from Memphis in 2024, highlighting his profound impact on the community.

Wink Martindale is survived by his loving wife, Sandy, his sister Geraldine, and his daughters, Lisa, Lyn, and Laura. He is also survived by his grandchildren and his “honorary son,” Eric, who will carry on his cherished memory and legacy.