Wink Martindale: Beloved Game Show Guru and Early Elvis Interviewer Passes Away at 91

Wink Martindale, who charmed audiences as the host of popular game shows like “Gambit” and “Tic-Tac-Dough” and made his mark with one of the initial televised interviews with a youthful Elvis Presley, has passed away at the age of 91.

Martindale's passing occurred on Tuesday at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage, California, following a year-long battle with lymphoma, his publicist Brian Mayes confirmed.

According to Mayes, “He was doing surprisingly well until just a few weeks prior to his passing,” speaking from Nashville.

Rise of 'Gambit' and 'Tic-Tac-Dough'

Premiering alongside iconic shows like 'The Price is Right' and 'The Joker’s Wild', 'Gambit' emerged as a front-runner from its very first broadcast in September 1972. Martindale credited its simplicity akin to traditional card games as a key to its initial success.

However, 'Gambit' dominated its slot on television for more than two years, until 'Wheel of Fortune' premiered in 1975, ultimately supplanting it by December 1976.

Martindale bounced back with 'Tic-Tac-Dough' in 1978, turning it into a CBS favorite until 1985. His tenure included overseeing the legendary run of contestant Thom McKee, who amassed over $300,000 in prizes.

Career Highlights and Personal Life

Having worked extensively as a radio DJ prior, Martindale honed his ability to think on his feet, a skill valuable for his eventual hosting of nearly 20 game shows.

Martindale was initially known as Winston Conrad Martindale, born in Jackson, Tennessee. A long-time admirer of radio, he began his career at a young age, eventually leading him to significant roles in TV.

He also initiated one of Elvis Presley's early televised interviews and maintained sporadic contact over the years, which added to his legendary status.

His personal life included significant moments, such as his second wife's brief romance with Presley and a successful attempt at leaving a lasting imprint in both radio and television.

Final Years and Legacy

Beyond his iconic game shows, Martindale explored production, created his own content, and returned to radio, contributing to syndicated programs about music history. He was once a feature in a KFC ad campaign alongside Rob Lowe.

Family was central to Wink's life. Survived by his second wife Sandy, daughters Lisa, Madelyn, and Laura, and several grandchildren, he is fondly remembered by many. His passing marks the end of an era in television history.