Peter Marshall, the beloved host of the iconic game show "Hollywood Squares," has passed away at the age of 98. His family announced he died from kidney failure at his home in Encino, California, on Thursday morning.
Marshall was not just known for his smooth hosting style but also for bringing warmth and humor to the show over 5,000 episodes from 1966 to 1981. His ability to interact with celebrities added life to the game show format, making it one of the most popular shows on television.
Born Ralph Pierre LaCock on March 30, 1926, Marshall grew up in West Virginia and began his career as an NBC radio page. He served as a disc jockey for Armed Forces Radio during World War II, gaining valuable experience before he transitioned to television.
Marshall’s big break came when he was selected to host "Hollywood Squares," becoming known for his engaging manner and quick wit. The tic-tac-toe format allowed celebrities to play off each other, resulting in endless comedic moments.
He once remarked, "It was the easiest thing I’ve ever done in show business. I walked in, said 'Hello, stars,' I read questions and laughed. And it paid very well." His candidness made him endearing to both contestants and viewers alike.
Among the star-studded panelists were notable names like Joan Rivers, Paul Lynde, and George Gobel, all of whom helped to create the show’s memorable dynamic. The witty exchanges and humorous answers were often referred to as "zingers," which became synonymous with the show.
Marshall’s rapport with Lynde was particularly special. The center square had likely never seen such entertaining banter before, which became one of the show’s highlights.
Not only was Marshall dedicated to his hosting duties, but he was also multifaceted, with significant contributions to film, stage, and music. He appeared as a contract player at 20th Century Fox, was featured as the lead opposite Chita Rivera in the West End musical "Bye Bye Birdie," and starred on Broadway.
His Broadway debut occurred with "Skyscraper" alongside celebrated actress Julie Harris, and he had roles in numerous other musicals throughout his career. The show "The Hollywood Squares" would win four Daytime Emmy Awards during his tenure, attaining cultural significance.
Marshall was often regarded as more of a talk show host than just a game show MC. His role allowed him to draw laughter from big-name celebrities, cementing his legacy during the golden age of television game shows.
After the original run of "Hollywood Squares," Marshall continued to work on various other shows, including "The Peter Marshall Variety Show" and several other game shows. He remained active and engaged with projects related to music and performance long after his time on Squares.
Marshall’s personal life was also notable; he was married three times, with his final spouse being Laurie Stewart, whom he married in 1989. Together, they faced challenges including both contracting COVID-19 but overcoming the illness together.
His children also had connections to sports and entertainment; his son, Pete LaCock, played professional baseball for teams like the Chicago Cubs. Marshall was proud of his family, and he shared his home with Laurie and their close-knit family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Beyond his television fame, Marshall valued his lifelong love for animals and participated in various charitable activities, including events celebrating animal welfare. His contributions extended beyond entertainment, engaging with the community through volunteer efforts.
The remarkable run of "Hollywood Squares" mirrored Marshall’s rich career, and its revival by Nate Burleson with Drew Barrymore slated for 2024 keeps the legacy alive. While Marshall’s presence will be missed, his mark on humor and television remains timeless.
Fans and loved ones mourn his passing, celebrating the joy he brought to countless viewers over the decades. He leaves behind not just memories of his laughter but also the legacy of his impactful career across multiple platforms.
Marshall’s family invites those wishing to honor his memory to make donations to animal charities, reflecting his long-held passion for animal welfare. His charismatic spirit and engaging personality will be cherished and remembered as part of television history.
