Wink Martindale, the iconic television personality best known for hosting classic game shows such as Tic-Tac-Dough, High Rollers, and Gambit, has passed away at the age of 91.
Martindale passed away Tuesday at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California, following a year-long battle with lymphoma, according to his publicist Brian Mayes and the Associated Press. He was surrounded by his loved ones, including his wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale.
“He was doing pretty well up until a couple weeks ago,” Mayes said on a phone call.
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, Martindale began his career in broadcasting as a teenager, working in radio before transitioning to television. His smooth voice and genial demeanor quickly made him a natural fit for game shows. He gained national recognition in the 1970s and 1980s as the host of a string of successful programs that became staples of daytime TV.
Over the course of his career, Martindale hosted more than 20 different game shows and became one of the genre’s most enduring and beloved figures. Tic-Tac-Dough, in particular, became synonymous with his name.
In addition to his television work, Martindale was also a successful radio DJ and producer. He helped bring Elvis Presley’s first nationally broadcast single to the airwaves and maintained a close friendship with the rock star throughout his life.
Martindale remained active well into his later years, sharing stories and memories of his broadcasting days through interviews and his official YouTube channel, where he introduced classic game show clips to a new generation of fans.
He is survived by his wife Sandra, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
