Starting his career as a disc jockey when only a teenager, Wink Martindale went on to become a household name thanks to hosting shows like Gambit, Tic-Tac-Dough, High Rollers, and Debt. From the 1970s until the late 1990s, the host and television producer also explored a career as a music artist when releasing songs like “Deck of Cards” and “Black Land Farmer.” Sadly, on Tuesday, April 15th, the famed game show host passed away at 91 years old.
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Loving his career on television, Martindale never lost that passion as he continued to work in his old age. Back in 2016, the TV personality appeared as a minister on the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful. And skipping ahead to 2021, he helmed The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The two-hour show played into Martindale’s love for music as he took fans on a trip back to hit songs of the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
Outside of Martindale’s time in the spotlight, the host also shared his love for his wife Sandy Ferra. Getting married back in 1975, the couple celebrated their life and love together. And apparently, their love for each other started thanks to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley.
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Wink Martindale Found Love Thanks To Elvis Presley
Before Ferra settled down with Martindale, she caught the eye of Elvis. Having dated a few times before marrying Priscilla, Ferra insisted the legendary singer was “responsible for me marrying Wink.” She added, “When [Martindale] said he was from Tennessee, I said, ‘He must be a nice guy,’ because I loved the state. I loved all the guys. I loved everything in the state of Tennessee because Elvis was such a wonderful part of my life.”
Knowing about her past with the icon, Martindale often praised Elvis for how he treated those around him. “Very few people knew that he gave away literally millions and millions of dollars to charitable organizations not only in this country but all over the world.” He continued, “He was a great giver. If he was your friend, he was your friend until the day you died. I mean, he would always be your friend and do anything for you that you needed him to do. He was that kind of a person.”
With Martindale leaving behind family, friends, and fans, his legacy in television and the entertainment business will always be remembered.
(Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
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