A Legendary Career

Born Winston Martindale, his illustrious career spanned an impressive 74 years. He began his journey in entertainment at the young age of 17. Initially working as a disc jockey, he achieved chart success with his spoken-word rendition of the song “Deck of Cards,” which made its way onto the Billboard Hot 100 in 1959.

Martindale’s television debut came at WHBQ-TV, where he hosted “Mars Patrol,” a science-fiction show for children. His time at WHBQ-TV also included hosting “Teenage Dance Party,” a show notable for featuring appearances by iconic figures like Elvis Presley, who had a personal connection to Martindale through his wife, Sandy.

Game Show Hosting Greater Fame

In 1964, Martindale rose to prominence by hosting NBC’s “What’s This Song,” leading to numerous other hosting roles including “Words and Music,” “Can You Stop This,” and “Headline Chasers.” His tenure on “Tic-Tac-Dough,” from 1978 to 1985, and “High Rollers,” which aired from 1987 to 1988, solidified his status in the game show industry.

Martindale recalled a competitive audition process for “Gambit,” sharing that he ultimately secured the hosting role over the famous Dick Clark, noting, “This is one time I beat Dick Clark.” His love for engaging with contestants and viewers was evident, as he expressed a genuine interest in understanding the motivations behind people’s successes in the games.

A Lasting Impact

The Game Show Network released a statement mourning his passing: “The entire Game Show Network family mourns the loss of Wink Martindale… His charm and presence lit up the screen for generations of viewers and he will never be forgotten.”

Martindale continued to make appearances on various television programs in his later years, including “Most Outrageous Game Show Moments” and “The Chase.” His notable commercial work included advertisements for Orbitz and KFC, showcasing his enduring presence in popular culture.

Personal Legacy

Survived by his wife, daughters, and sister, Martindale will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his impact on the television landscape. His consistent ability to connect with audiences truly made him a legend in the realm of game shows.