Remembering Chuck Woolery, Original 'Wheel of Fortune' Host, Dead at 83
Chuck Woolery, the charismatic game show host who helped shape American television, has passed away at the age of 83. Woolery, best known as the original host of Wheel of Fortune and later Love Connection , leaves behind a legacy of charm, humor, and unmistakable presence on the small screen.
His longtime friend and podcast co-host, Mark Young, shared the sad news, recounting Woolery’s final moments at his home in Texas. Chuck reportedly expressed discomfort before lying down to rest, later experiencing trouble breathing. Emergency services were called, but sadly, Woolery could not be revived. His death marks the end of an era for fans of classic television and game shows.
Woolery's career spanned decades, beginning as a musician in the 1960s. He gained early recognition with the orchestral pop band The Avant-Garde, whose hit “Naturally Stoned” briefly charted in 1968. But his true calling emerged in the mid-1970s when he was chosen by Merv Griffin to host a new game show concept. Wheel of Fortune debuted in 1975 with Woolery at the helm, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon. Woolery brought a friendly yet professional demeanor to the role, steering the show to an impressive 44% audience share by 1981. However, a salary dispute led to his departure, and Pat Sajak stepped into the spotlight thereafter.
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Undeterred, Woolery pivoted to new opportunities, hosting Love Connection from 1983 to 1994. Known for his signature phrase “two and two” — referring to the commercial break length — Woolery became a household name, presiding over thousands of episodes and influencing matchmaking-themed television for years to come. He also hosted other popular shows, including Scrabble , The Dating Game , and Lingo .
In addition to his TV career, Woolery had a brief stint in music and acting, appearing on shows like Scrubs and in films like Cold Feet . More recently, he co-hosted the politically charged podcast Blunt Force Truth , showcasing his diverse interests beyond entertainment.
Chuck Woolery’s warmth, wit, and contributions to television have left an indelible mark. He is survived by his wife Kim and his children Katherine, Melissa, Michael, and Sean. His passing is a poignant reminder of the golden era of game shows and the enduring charm of a true television legend. Rest in peace, Chuck Woolery.
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