Legendary host of “The Hollywood Squares,” Peter Marshall, who was well known for having a witty sense of humor and always had amazing interactions with the celebrities who appeared on the game show, has died. Marshall passed away at his home located in Encino, California at the age of 98. We keep losing all the good ones, ladies and gentlemen. We all know death is inevitable. It’s the only thing we can be sure of in this life. Well, that and taxes as the old joke goes.
According to Trending Politics News, Marshall’s death was confirmed by his wife, Laurie, who stated that her husband died due to kidney failure. The couple had been married for a total of 5 years. The game show host was well beloved by American television audiences. He was born as Pierre LaCock in Huntington, West Virginia back in 1926. Marshall’s career in the entertainment industry began when he became a big band singer. He later transitioned to television.
Oozing charm, Marshall soon took up hosting duties on “The Hollywood Squares,” which, for the young ones out there, was a game show where celebrities came and played a gigantic game of tic-tac-toe. Sounds weird when you write it out, but it was highly entertaining.
Marshall’s hosting style was unique. He had a knack for coaxing humorous and often cheeky responses from the show’s celebrity guests, which included stars such as Burt Reynolds, Mel Brooks, and Joan Rivers. His rapport with these celebrities brought a dynamic energy to the show, making it one of the most popular and enduring game shows on television. Marshall’s ability to interact with celebrities and contestants alike with ease and humor was a key factor in the show’s success, keeping it lively and engaging.
Marshall described his experience in show business as remarkably straightforward during a 2010 Archive of American Television interview. “It was the easiest thing I’ve ever done in show business,” he recounted. “I walked in, said ‘Hello, stars,’ I read questions and laughed. And it paid very well.”
Peter Marshall lived in your television set every day for 16 years.
He was a prolific theater actor and comedian prior to Hollywood Squares. The only reason he took the job as host?
To spite Dan Rowan who he absolutely hated and was also asked to host. 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/qLENkzlyyZ
— Danny Deraney (@DannyDeraney) August 15, 2024
Under Marshall’s guidance, “The Hollywood Squares” became more than just a game show; it was a cultural phenomenon that offered viewers a glimpse into the lighter side of Hollywood. The program was lauded for its entertaining blend of comedy and game show elements, making it a staple in American households. Marshall’s role in this success was pivotal; he not only hosted the show but also contributed to its spirit and humor.
In an interview from 2013 that Marshall did with a newspaper in his hometown, the Hearld-Dispatch of Huntington West Virginia, he spoke about his true life’s passion.
“I am a singer first, I am not a game show host,” he proclaimed during the conversation. “That was just a freak opportunity. I had been on Broadway with Julie Harris and was going back to Broadway when I did the audition, and I thought it was a few weeks, but that turned into 16 years.”
After his tenure on “The Hollywood Squares,” Marshall continued to work in television and radio, demonstrating his versatility across various genres of entertainment. He remained a beloved figure for fans of classic TV game shows, remembered not only for his television persona but also for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
The old game show is making a return to television soon which will be hosted by Nate Burleson. The center square will be actress and talk show host Drew Barrymore.
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Marshall was married three times during his life. He married Laurie in 1989. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Suzanne Browning and Jaime Dimarco, and son Pete LaCock.