In a shocking turn of events, Wink Martindale has passed away at the age of 91. The veteran television personality was a revolutionary figure in the entertainment industry and contributed immensely to enabling a smooth transition from the era of radio to that of television. Martindale’s tragic demise has fans asking questions about his wealth, including how much money he makes. So, let’s take a deep dive into Martindale’s net worth in 2025.
What is Wink Martindale’s net worth in 2025?
Wink Martindale had an estimated net worth of $20 million in 2025.
Wink Martindale’s net worth in 2025 comprises earnings from his radio DJ and television host career.
Martindale is most famous for hosting several fan-favorite game shows, including Gambit, High Rollers, and, most notably, Tic-Tac-Dough. One of the most recognizable faces in the US, Martindale also assisted in giving Elvis Presley his first shot at fame. He was there when DJ Dewey Phillips introduced America to Presley’s ‘That’s All Right,’ which eventually led to the iconic singer’s first interview.
What does Wink Martindale do for a living?
Martindale was a radio DJ and television host.
Wink Martindale’s earnings explained — how did he make money?
Wink Martindale earned money from his career as a radio DJ and a television host. Martindale also had some real estate investments under his belt.
Radio DJ: Wink Martindale kickstarted his career in radio in 1951 at Tennessee’s WPLI station. Gradually rising up the ranks, he became the host of WHBQ Radio’s renowned morning show, Clockwatchers, in 1953. A year later, he oversaw the release of Presley’s That’s All Right at the Memphis station.
The seasoned host also released a single titled Deck of Cards in 1959, securing #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and a golden record for Martindale.
Television host: Martindale transitioned into the television sector with a children’s show named Wink Martindale of the Mars Patrol. In 1959, he relocated to Los Angeles and picked up his first game show hosting gig in 1964 with NBC’s What’s This Song. After that, Martindale never looked back and hosted a horde of TV shows, including Words and Music, Gambit, Trivial Pursuit, and more, with Tic-Tac-Dough being his most recognizable work. Martindale was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 for his unmatchable contribution to the industry.
Real estate: Martindale and his wife purchased a luxurious California estate in 1993 for $900,000 before selling it for $2.16 million in 2020.