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Chuck Woolery, the original host of Wheel of Fortune and an iconic figure in game show history, passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at his home in Texas. He was 83. The news was shared by his friend and podcast co-host, Mark Young, who expressed his grief on social media, stating, "Life will not be the same without him. RIP, brother."
Born in Ashland, Kentucky, in 1941, Woolery's early career began in music. He was part of the psychedelic pop duo The Avant-Garde, which gained recognition with the hit "Naturally Stoned" in 1968. His musical talents eventually led to his television debut, with Wheel of Fortune creator Merv Griffin spotting him on The Tonight Show. Woolery went on to host the daytime version of Wheel of Fortune from its inception in 1975 until 1981.
Woolery's charm and wit made him a household name, earning him a Daytime Emmy Award in 1978. He left Wheel of Fortune following a salary dispute, paving the way for Pat Sajak, who hosted the show until 2024. Woolery then carved a unique niche in the game show industry, hosting popular shows like Love Connection, Scrabble, Greed, and Lingo. Reflecting on his work, Woolery once told People, "This is really the one show I do that I'll watch at home. I really like its unpredictability."
His contributions to television extended beyond hosting. Woolery also ventured into radio, co-hosting the conservative podcast Blunt Force Truth alongside Mark Young. Despite his shift to podcasting and political commentary later in life, his legacy as a beloved game show host endured.
Woolery's personal life was equally dynamic. A U.S. Navy veteran, he was married four times and raised eight children and stepchildren. He married Kim Barnes in 2006, and the couple remained together until his passing.
His death, reportedly following breathing difficulties, marks the end of a multifaceted career that spanned entertainment, music, and media. Woolery will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and ability to connect with audiences. As his friend Mark Young wrote, "It is with a broken heart that I tell you my dear brother Chuck Woolery has just passed away."
