Wink Martindale, the iconic game show host known for Tic-Tac-Dough and Gambit, has died at the age of 91. His death occurred on April 15, 2025, in Rancho Mirage, California, surrounded by family, including his wife of 49 years, Sandy.
The news of his passing was confirmed by multiple sources and widely shared across social media platforms like X, marking the end of a legendary career that spanned over seven decades.
A Humble Beginning in Tennessee
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he entered the entertainment world as a radio DJ at the age of 17. His early career took a significant turn in 1954 while working at WHBQ in Memphis.
There, Martindale played a key role in broadcasting Elvis Presley’s debut single, That’s All Right, and facilitated one of the earliest interviews with the future King of Rock and Roll by contacting Presley’s mother. This moment highlighted his knack for being at the right place at the right time, a trait that would define his career.
Rising to Game Show Stardom
Martindale transitioned to television in the 1960s, beginning with What’s This Song? in 1964. However, it was his hosting of Gambit in the early 1970s and Tic-Tac-Dough from 1978 to 1985 that cemented his status as a game show icon. Known for his warm demeanor, quick wit, and ability to connect with contestants, he hosted over 20 shows, including High Rollers, The Last Word, and Debt. His engaging style turned programs into must-watch TV, earning him a devoted following.
Signature Shows That Defined an Era
Tic-Tac-Dough challenged contestants to answer trivia questions to place X’s and O’s on a tic-tac-toe board, vying for cash and prizes. Under Martindale’s stewardship, the show soared in popularity, blending strategy with excitement. Similarly, Gambit fused blackjack and trivia, allowing players to gamble their knowledge for big wins. Martindale’s charm made these formats unforgettable, setting him apart in a competitive industry.
Beyond the Screen
Martindale’s talents extended beyond hosting. He produced shows and even ventured into music, scoring a hit in the 1950s with the spoken-word country song Deck of Cards. This versatility showcased his multifaceted contributions to entertainment, from radio waves to television screens.
The Man Behind the Nickname
The nickname “Wink” originated from a childhood friend’s struggle to pronounce “Winston,” a speech impediment that turned it into “Winky.” Martindale embraced the moniker, which became synonymous with his approachable persona. He was married twice, with his second marriage to Sandy lasting nearly five decades until his death. He leaves behind Sandy, four children from his first marriage—Lisa, Madelyn, Laura, and Wink Jr.—and numerous grandchildren.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Even in his later years, Martindale’s dedication never wavered. Diagnosed with lymphoma, he continued working, his passion undimmed by health challenges. This resilience underscored his commitment to entertaining audiences, a testament to his enduring spirit.
A Lasting Legacy
Martindale’s influence on game shows is profound. Colleagues and fans alike praised his pioneering approach, which shifted hosting from formality to personal engagement. The Game Show Network mourned him as “a true legend of television game shows,” a sentiment echoed industry-wide. In a 2014 interview, he reflected on his nickname’s origin with characteristic humor, noting how “Winky” evolved into “Wink”—a name that served him well across decades.
His impact resonates in the work of subsequent hosts, many of whom cite him as an inspiration. From his early days with Elvis to his game show reign, Martindale’s career bridged music, radio, and TV, leaving an indelible mark. As tributes flood platforms like X, with posts hailing him as “the king of the television game show,” his legacy endures, cherished by generations of fans and peers.
