Chuck Woolery, original host of Wheel Of Fortune, dies

Chuck Woolery, the original host of Wheel of Fortune, passed away at 83. His death was confirmed by his podcast co-host, Mark Young. Woolery's career began in children's television after a stint in the Navy and a brief, unsuccessful music career. He achieved musical success with the band The Avant-Garde and their hit "Naturally Stoned." Merv Griffin discovered Woolery and offered him the hosting role on Wheel of Fortune in 1975. A salary dispute with Griffin led to Woolery's departure from the show after six years, paving the way for Pat Sajak. He went on to host numerous other game shows, including Love Connection, where he coined his signature catchphrase. Later in life, Woolery became a vocal conservative figure, hosting a podcast and engaging in political commentary. This led to several controversies, including accusations of anti-Semitism and COVID denial. He is survived by his wife and three children, having previously lost two children from his first marriage.