Popular game show host Chuck Woolery, best known as the first “Wheel of Fortune” host, has died. He was 83.
Chuck’s longtime friend and podcast co-host, Mark Young, shared with TMZ that he was at Chuck’s Texas home when Chuck mentioned feeling unwell and went to rest. Shortly after, Chuck returned to the room, stating he was having difficulty breathing. Emergency services were called, but tragically, Woolery passed away before help could arrive.

Chuck Woolery, born on March 16, 1941, in Ashland, Kentucky, is an American television personality, game show host, and musician. Known for his charismatic presence and quick wit, Woolery became a household name in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of game shows.

Woolery’s early career began in music. He was a member of the pop trio The Avant-Garde, which scored a hit with “Naturally Stoned” in 1968. Later, he pursued a solo music career, releasing several singles in the country music genre. Transitioning from music to television, Woolery’s charm and natural ability to engage audiences quickly became evident.