Wink Martindale, the iconic game show host and one of the first people to interview Elvis Presley on TV, has passed away at the age of 91. Known for his smooth voice, upbeat personality, and signature charm, Martindale was a fixture of American television for decades. He died peacefully at his Rancho Mirage home in California, surrounded by his wife, Sandra, and family. He had been battling lymphoma for about a year.
A TV and Radio Pioneer
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, Wink’s entertainment career began at just 17 when he took a job as a radio disc jockey. His golden voice and charisma quickly caught attention, and it wasn’t long before he found himself in Memphis—a pivotal move that would connect him with a young and rising Elvis Presley.
Martindale became one of the first television personalities to interview Presley in 1956, right before Elvis skyrocketed to global fame. This interview cemented Wink’s place in early rock and roll history and showed his knack for identifying talent and creating connection on screen.
The Face of Classic Game Shows
Wink Martindale’s name became synonymous with American game shows during the golden age of television. He hosted over 20 game shows during his career, including popular titles like Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, High Rollers, and Debt. His smooth delivery and friendly demeanor made him a household favorite, especially throughout the ’70s and ’80s.
Martindale’s hosting style was never about showboating. Instead, he made contestants feel comfortable, engaged audiences, and kept the energy high without ever overshadowing the games themselves. His professionalism and charm made him a reliable and entertaining figure that families could enjoy together.
More Than Just a Host
Martindale wasn’t just a game show figure. In 1959, he recorded a spoken-word song titled Deck of Cards, a heartfelt narrative about a soldier’s Bible-like interpretation of a deck of playing cards. The record was a massive success, selling over one million copies and peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard charts.
Beyond his entertainment achievements, Martindale was a generous philanthropist. He lent his support to various causes and hosted charity telethons for cerebral palsy and other health-related foundations. In 2006, he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—a symbol of his lasting impact on television and popular culture.
A Lasting Legacy
Wink Martindale’s legacy lives on not just through the television reruns and recordings, but in the generations of game show fans and television hosts he inspired. His warm personality, professionalism, and contributions to entertainment made him one of the most respected names in American broadcasting.
He is survived by his wife Sandra, three daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his son, Wink Jr. Though he’s gone, Wink Martindale’s voice, spirit, and smile will live on in the hearts of fans across the country.
FAQs
Q1: What shows was Wink Martindale known for?
A: He was best known for hosting Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, High Rollers, and Debt.
Q2: How did Wink Martindale start his career?
A: He began as a radio DJ in Tennessee at age 17 before transitioning to TV.
Q3: What was his connection to Elvis Presley?
A: He was one of the first TV hosts to interview Elvis Presley in 1956.
Q4: Did he do anything outside of television?
A: Yes, he recorded a hit spoken-word song Deck of Cards and supported various charities.
Q5: How is he being remembered today?
A: As a TV pioneer, warm-hearted host, and an early supporter of American music legends.