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Chuck Woolery, Original 'Wheel of Fortune' Host and Conservative Commentator, Dies at 83

Nov 24, 2024, 06:39 AM

Chuck Woolery, the original host of 'Wheel of Fortune' and longtime game show personality, has died at the age of 83. Woolery, known for his smooth-talking and affable demeanor, launched the popular game show 'Wheel of Fortune' in 1975, hosting it for six years before being replaced by Pat Sajak following a bitter salary dispute with creator Merv Griffin—a rift he never forgave. He later became the host of 'Love Connection,' where he spent over a decade helping singles find romance, including actress Jennifer Tilly, who expressed gratitude for his role in her 'love connection' with Garry. Woolery also hosted other game shows such as 'Scrabble' and 'The Dating Game,' becoming a familiar face on television throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Prior to his television career, he was a singer and frontman for the band The Avant-Garde, which had a hit song 'Naturally Stoned.' He was married to actress Jo Ann Pflug. His brother, Dr. Mark Young, confirmed that Woolery passed away peacefully at his home. In later years, Woolery became known as a conservative commentator and right-wing podcaster.