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Chuck Woolery, Original 'Wheel of Fortune' Host and Former Country Singer, Dies at 83

Nov 24, 2024, 01:23 PM

Chuck Woolery, the original host of "Wheel of Fortune" and "Love Connection," has died at the age of 83. Before his television career, Woolery was the frontman of the musical duo The Avant-Garde, which had a top 40 hit with "Naturally Stoned" in 1968. He was also an aspiring country singer. Woolery hosted "Wheel of Fortune" for its first six years before being replaced by Pat Sajak following a bitter salary dispute with creator Merv Griffin, whom he never forgave. He later helmed "Love Connection" for 11 years, where he coined the catchphrase "We'll be back in two and two," referring to the length of commercial breaks. Woolery was married to actress Jo Ann Pflug. Known for his matinee idol looks, coiffed hair, and ease with witty banter, Woolery also hosted other game shows including "Scrabble" and "Lingo." He was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and received a Daytime Emmy nomination in 1978. In later years, he became a conservative commentator and podcaster, expressing right-wing views. His death was confirmed by his brother, Dr. Mark Young, who stated that Woolery passed away peacefully at his home in Texas due to respiratory problems.