Chuck Woolery, Beloved Game Show Host and Right-Wing Podcaster, Passes Away

Chuck Woolery, the beloved game show host known for his roles on “Wheel of Fortune,” “Love Connection,” and “Scrabble,” has passed away at the age of 83. His death was announced by Mark Young, a friend and co-host of Woolery’s podcast, who mentioned that Woolery died at his home in Texas, surrounded by his wife, Kristen.

Woolery’s charm and sharp wit made him a popular figure in television, earning him a spot in the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007. He received a Daytime Emmy nomination in 1978. His most notable tenure as the host of “Love Connection” began in 1983 and lasted for 11 years, during which he popularized the catchphrase “We’ll be back in two minutes and two seconds.”

The show featured a format where singles would choose potential dates from audition tapes, leading to live audience interactions. Woolery fondly recalled a memorable couple: a 91-year-old man and an 87-year-old woman, whose unique personalities made for a hilarious anecdote.

Beyond hosting “Love Connection,” Woolery took on multiple projects, including “Lingo,” “Greed,” and a brief revival of “The Dating Game.” In 2003, he starred in the reality show “Chuck Woolery: Naturally Stoned,” which garnered mixed reviews and lasted just six episodes.

Woolery began his TV journey with “Wheel of Fortune,” which first aired on NBC in 1975. He co-hosted alongside Susan Stafford and was pivotal in shaping the show’s initial format. Despite being replaced by Pat Sajak after demanding a significant pay raise, Woolery’s contribution to the show remains notable in its history.

Originally from Ashland, Kentucky, Woolery served in the U.S. Navy before pursuing a music career, achieving early success with his rock group, The Avant-Garde. They scored a Top 40 hit with “Naturally Stoned.” Woolery later transitioned to country music and became a songwriter for various artists, including Tammy Wynette.

In recent years, he became known for his right-wing podcasting, becoming an outspoken critic of liberal policies and the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. His remarks drew considerable attention, including a retweet from former President Donald Trump, which further amplified his controversial views. However, after his son contracted the virus, Woolery revised his earlier statements, acknowledging the reality of the pandemic.

Woolery is survived by his wife, Kristen, and his children, Michael, Sean, and Melissa. His legacy as a game show pioneer and his later forays into podcasting will remain part of the American television landscape.