Wink Martindale, Beloved Game Show Host, Dies at 91
Wink Martindale, the charismatic host of classic game shows like Tic-Tac-Dough, Gambit, and Headline Chasers, has died at 91 from lymphoma. Known for his warm charm and iconic presence, Martindale brought joy to generations of TV audiences.
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he began his career as a teenage DJ. His nickname “Wink” came from a childhood friend’s mispronunciation of “Winston.”
Martindale made his TV debut on Mars Patrol and found lasting fame in 1972 with Gambit. Beyond game shows, he hosted the radio series The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll well into his late 80s.
Wink also played a part in music history. In 1954, he helped get Elvis Presley on air for the first time, kickstarting the singer’s career. The two shared a deep friendship, and Martindale often spoke of Elvis’s quiet generosity.
Wink’s wife Sandra, whom he married in 1975, had once dated Elvis. She credited the singer for leading her to Wink, saying, “Elvis is responsible for me marrying Wink.”
Martindale passed away on April 15, 2025, in Rancho Mirage, California. He is survived by his wife Sandra, daughters Lisa, Lyn, and Laura, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his beloved Chihuahua, Dude.
Wink’s legacy lives on in the memories he created and the joy he brought into millions of homes.