Long and Varied Career:: Martindale hosted or produced 21 game shows, most notably 'Tic-Tac-Dough,' 'Gambit,' and 'High Rollers.' His career began in radio in Tennessee in 1951.
Connection to Elvis:: As a young radio DJ in Memphis, Martindale was present for Elvis Presley's first-ever radio interview in 1954 and later hosted him on his local TV dance show. Martindale's wife, Sandy, also dated Presley.
Musical Success:: Martindale had a surprise million-selling hit record in 1959 with the spoken-word narrative "Deck of Cards."
Origin of 'Wink':: His distinctive first name came from a childhood friend's mispronunciation of his given name, Winston.
Why this matters:: Martindale was a foundational figure in the golden age of television game shows, bringing entertainment into millions of homes. His passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching him.
Winston Conrad "Wink" Martindale, born December 4, 1933, began his broadcasting journey at just 17 years old at WPLI radio in Jackson, Tennessee. He soon moved to WHBQ in Memphis, where his path famously crossed with a young Elvis Presley. Martindale facilitated Presley's first radio interview after Dewey Phillips played "That's All Right" on air, an event Martindale considered pivotal in changing popular music.
Martindale transitioned to television, hosting local children's shows and dance parties in Memphis before moving to Los Angeles in 1959. He became a staple on L.A. radio (KHJ, KMPC) and television, hosting local dance shows before breaking into the national game show circuit with 'What's This Song?' in 1964 (initially billed as Win Martindale).
His affable personality and professional demeanor made him a sought-after host. He helmed 'Tic-Tac-Dough' for nearly a decade (1978-1986 in syndication), a period highlighted by contestant Thom McKee's record-setting $312,700 win. Other notable hosting credits include 'Gambit,' 'High Rollers,' 'Debt,' and 'Trivial Pursuit.' His prolific hosting career, second only to Bill Cullen, earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and induction into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame.
Beyond hosting, Martindale recorded music for Dot Records, achieving unexpected success with "Deck of Cards" in 1959. He also produced game shows and co-hosted telethons. His long career demonstrates a remarkable adaptability and enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.
How did Wink Martindale get his name?
A childhood friend in Jackson, Tennessee, couldn't pronounce his given name, Winston, correctly, and it came out sounding like 'Winky.' He shortened it to Wink when he entered the radio business.
What were Wink Martindale's most famous game shows?
He is best known for hosting 'Tic-Tac-Dough,' 'Gambit,' and 'High Rollers,' among 21 different game shows throughout his career.
Did Wink Martindale know Elvis Presley?
Yes, Martindale was a DJ in Memphis when Elvis started his career and helped arrange Presley's first radio interview. He also hosted Elvis on his local TV dance show.
Enduring Legacy:: Wink Martindale was a constant presence on television for generations, representing a classic era of game show entertainment.
Early Rock 'n' Roll History:: His career intersected with pivotal moments in music history, particularly the rise of Elvis Presley.
Versatility:: Martindale successfully navigated careers in radio, television hosting, music, and production over seven decades.
What are your favorite memories of watching Wink Martindale on TV? Do you think game shows today capture the same magic? Let us know!
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Source 1: The Hollywood Reporter
Source 2: Los Angeles Times (via Yahoo)
Source 3: Los Angeles Times
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