Wink Martindale Dead at 91: What Happened to the Legendary TV Host?

Wink Martindale, the beloved game show host known for classics like Gambit, High Rollers, and Tic-Tac-Dough, has passed away at the age of 91.

According to Deadline, Martindale’s family confirmed his death, marking the end of an era in television. A heartfelt tribute was shared on his official Facebook page, which read, “It’s with a very sad and heavy heart that we here at Wink Martindale Games have to report the passing of the legendary Wink Martindale.”

“Wink was amazing, funny and talented. Truly a LEGEND! More to come soon,” the post continued, expressing the deep sadness of his passing.

Martindale died on Tuesday, April 15, in Rancho Mirage, California. A representative revealed that he passed peacefully, “surrounded by family and his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale.”

While the official cause of death has not been released, it is believed that Martindale had been battling lymphoma for the past year.

Spanning over a period of seven decades, Martindale was by far the most recognizable figure in American television. In addition to his fame as a game show host, he also enjoyed success as a disc jockey, radio personality, and television producer, and he entertained his audiences across the globe for 74 years.