Peter Marshall, the Emmy-winning game show host best known for “Hollywood Squares,” passed away from kidney failure on Thursday in Encino at the age of 98. His wife, Laurie, confirmed that he died peacefully at home.
A remarkable talent, Marshall received 19 Emmy nominations throughout his career, winning five awards. He hosted over 5,000 episodes of the original “Hollywood Squares” and made appearances in numerous films, stage productions, and television shows.
Born Ralph Pierre LaCock in Huntington, West Virginia, he began his career as an NBC Radio page and usher at Paramount Theater before serving in the Army, where he worked as a disc jockey for Armed Forces Radio.
Marshall developed a comedy routine with Tommy Noonan, touring nationwide and performing on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” As a contract player for 20th Century Fox, he acted in films such as “Ensign Pulver,” “The Rookie,” and the beloved musical “Annie.”
In 1966, he was hired to host NBC’s “The Hollywood Squares,” which featured a host of stars like Paul Lynde, Joan Rivers, and Rose Marie, entertaining audiences with its unique tic-tac-toe format filled with humor and clever responses referred to as “zingers.”
Alongside “Hollywood Squares,” Marshall hosted “The Peter Marshall Variety Show,” “Big Bands From Disneyland,” the audience participation show “Fantasy” with Leslie Uggams, and game shows like “All-Star Blitz” and “Yahtzee.” His guest appearances spanned shows such as “The Love Boat,” “WKRP in Cincinnati,” and “Lou Grant.”
Beyond hosting, Marshall was a versatile actor and singer who produced big band shows and released numerous albums. He also hosted a program on the Music of Your Life radio network and created musical specials for PBS. His memoir, “Backstage With the Original Hollywood Square,” highlights his experiences in the entertainment industry.
A passionate advocate for animals, Marshall recently participated in the 50th anniversary of Betty White’s Pet Set and hosted the 90th celebration for Doris Day. He also narrated the documentary “Wait for Your Laugh,” which focused on his colleague Rose Marie.
Marshall is survived by his wife Laurie, with whom he shared 35 years, as well as daughters Suzanne Browning (David) and Jaime Dimarco (Steve), son Pete LaCock (Janna), and was predeceased by son David LaCock. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Actors & Others for Animals, the Lange Foundation, or the Mercy Kids Therapy and Development Center.