Legendary Game Show Host Wink Martindale Dies at 91
Wink Martindale, beloved radio and television entertainer, has passed away. Best known as the host of classic game shows like Tic-Tac-Dough and Gambit, Martindale died on April 15, 2025. He was 91.
A Voice That Felt Like Home
Wink Martindale wasn’t just a TV personality. He was a comforting voice, a burst of excitement, and a joyful presence for millions of viewers.
People still remember the thrill of Tic-Tac-Dough, the fun of Headline Chasers, and the energy of High Rollers. But Gambit? That one hit differently.
His charm and warmth made the show feel personal — like he was inviting you into something special.
Humble Beginnings
Winston Conrad Martindale was born on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee. At 17, he began his broadcasting career as a disc jockey at WPLI, earning just $25 a week.
He once told ABC News how he got his nickname. A childhood friend with a speech impediment called him “Winky” instead of “Winston.” The name stuck, and “Wink” was born.
Early Steps into Television
Martindale’s first TV role came as host of Mars Patrol, a sci-fi-themed kids’ show. Even then, his star power was clear. Whether behind a mic or in front of a camera, Wink was built for showbiz.
His big break came in 1972 when CBS tapped him to host Gambit. The show became a hit, and Wink stayed on for four years.
A Front Row Seat to Rock ‘n’ Roll History
Before he became a game show icon, Wink played a surprising role in music history.
On July 10, 1954, he was giving friends a tour of WHBQ radio in Memphis. That night, his colleague Dewey Phillips played a new track — That’s All Right by a then-unknown Elvis Presley.
Phone lines lit up.
Dewey wanted to bring Elvis in for an interview, but no one could find him. So Wink called the Presley household. Elvis’ mom, Gladys, answered. She said Elvis was too nervous to stay home — he’d gone to a movie.
Wink encouraged her to bring him to the studio. She did.
Elvis arrived with his parents. Dewey sat him down for an interview, and without realizing it, Elvis spoke live on air for the first time.
Wink later recalled that Elvis admitted he wouldn’t have been able to talk if he’d known he was live. That moment helped launch Elvis’ career — and Wink was there to see it.
Elvis and Wink: A Personal Connection
What impressed Wink most about Elvis wasn’t the fame — it was the generosity.
“Elvis was a giver,” Wink once said. “He donated millions to charities around the world.”
Wink’s wife, Sandra, had dated Elvis before marrying Martindale in 1975. In a 2015 interview, she credited Elvis for leading her to Wink.
“Elvis is responsible for me marrying Wink,” she said. “When I heard he was from Tennessee, I thought, ‘He must be a good guy.’ Because Elvis made me love everything about that state.”
Still Entertaining Late in Life
Even in his 80s, Wink stayed active. One of his last projects was hosting The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll, a two-hour weekend radio show. He was 88 at the time.
Final Goodbye
Wink Martindale died from lymphoma in Rancho Mirage, California. He was surrounded by family, including his wife Sandra.
He is survived by his daughters — Lisa, Lyn, and Laura — as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his “honorary” son Eric, and his beloved Chihuahua, Dude.
More Than Just a Host
Wink’s legacy isn’t defined only by the shows he hosted. It’s defined by the joy he brought into living rooms across America.
He wasn’t just a host. He was a friend — someone who made you feel like part of the fun.
Even though the lights on his stage have dimmed, his legacy shines on.
Rest in peace, Wink. You’ll always have a place in our hearts.
