Chuck Woolery, the beloved game show host known for his roles on “Wheel of Fortune” and “Love Connection,” has passed away at the age of 83. His close friend and podcast co-host, Mark Young, shared the news on social media that Woolery died on Saturday at his home in Texas. Further details regarding his passing have not been disclosed.
Born on March 16, 1941, in Ashland, Kentucky, Woolery initially ventured into the entertainment industry as a singer. He was a member of the orchestral pop band The Avant-Garde, best known for the song “Naturally Stoned,” which peaked at No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1968. After showcasing his talent on “The Merv Griffin Show,” he was offered the chance to host a new game show called “Shopper’s Bazaar,” later renamed “Wheel of Fortune,” which premiered in 1975.
Woolery’s tenure on “Wheel of Fortune” was notable, particularly as he negotiated for a salary increase that would see him matched with his peers in the industry. His departure from the show came amid internal disputes, leading to his replacement by Pat Sajak.
Undeterred, Woolery found significant success with “Love Connection,” hosting over 2,000 episodes from 1983 to 1994. At the height of his career, he was reportedly earning around $1 million annually. He also hosted several other game shows, including “Lingo” and “Greed,” and had a brief stint with his own CBS daytime morning show.
Aside from his impressive career, Woolery was recognized with a Daytime Emmy award in 1978 for his work on “Wheel of Fortune.” He was also known for his distinctive catchphrase to signal commercial breaks.
In terms of personal life, Woolery was married four times and had eight children and stepchildren. He later co-hosted a podcast, where he discussed various topics from a right-wing perspective.
Woolery’s legacy is one of charm and charisma, marked by his contributions to daytime television and the game show genre. He will be remembered for his engaging personality, significant impact on television, and the joy he brought to countless viewers.
This news highlights the contributions Woolery made to television over several decades. Despite the sadness of his passing, fans can celebrate his vibrant legacy and the enduring impact of his work in the entertainment industry.