Woolery passed away on November 23 at his home in Texas, leaving behind a legacy spanning decades of television.
Chuck Woolery attends “The Evolution Of The Relationship Reality Show” on March 19, 2015, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Mark Young, Woolery’s longtime friend and podcast cohost, shared details about his final moments.
According to Young, Woolery was at home with his wife when he began feeling unwell and decided to lie down.
Concerned, his wife checked on him and found him struggling to breathe. Despite calling 911, Woolery could not be saved.
Chuck Woolery at the “Game Show Networks 2003 Winter TCA Tour” at the Renaissance Hotel in Los Angeles, on January 8, 2003. | Source: Getty Images
Young later paid tribute to his friend on X (formerly Twitter), posting photos of their time together and expressing his grief.
He described Woolery as a “dear brother” and said life wouldn’t be the same without him, adding, “RIP, brother.”
Joe Dan Gorman, a friend and colleague, shared an old clip of them working together and reflected on the profound impact Woolery had on his life.
In his post, Gorman noted that Woolery lived an “amazing, almost fairytale life” but remained grounded and devoted to his faith.
He called Woolery “one of eastern Kentucky’s finest products,” and added, “Thank you, Chuck. Chuck Woolery was my friend.”
In a separate post, Gorman shared the story of how Woolery first contacted him in 2013. He recalled being taken aback by Woolery’s unmistakable voice during the unexpected call.
Woolery had reached out to praise Gorman’s show, “Intellectual Froglegs,” which he regularly shared with others.
The two grew close over the years, exchanging stories and enjoying conversations.
Chuck Woolery portrait taken on September 9, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Gorman also highlighted Woolery’s wide-ranging connections, mentioning that he knew everyone from John Wayne to Jonathan Winters and had even sung with Dolly Parton.
Describing him as one of the “nicest men” he’d ever known, Gorman highlighted Woolery’s faith and kindness, a sentiment echoed by many who knew him.
Chuck Woolery on the gameshow “Lingo” October 17, 2003, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Woolery leaves behind his wife, Kim, and his four children: Katherine, Melissa, Michael, and Sean.
His passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic game shows who cherished his warm presence and unforgettable charm on screen.
The Kentuck native’s career took off in 1975 when he became the first host of the now-legendary game show “Wheel of Fortune.”
Chuck Woolery at the “Game Show Networks 2003 Winter TCA Tour” in Los Angeles on Wednesday, January on 8, 2003. | Source: Getty Imagges
His tenure lasted until 1981, when a salary dispute led to his departure, with Pat Sajak stepping into the role.
He later found success hosting the hit dating show “Love Connection” for 12 years, as well as shows like “Scrabble” and a revamped version of “The Dating Game.”
Chuck Woolery at the “Game Show Networks 2003 Winter TCA Tour” in Los Angeles on Wednesday, January on 8, 2003. | Source: Getty Imagges
Beyond the game show circuit, Woolery made memorable guest appearances on TV, showing up as himself in sitcoms like “227,” “Scrubs” and “Melrose Place” and in the comedy film “Cold Feet.”
A man of many talents, he also pursued a modest country music career before fully embracing his role in entertainment.
Chuck Woolery, “Lingo” and “Love Conection”, performs at the “Game Show Networks 2003 Winter TCA Tour” at the Renaissance Hotel in Los Angeles on Wednesday, on January 8, 2003. | Source: Getty Images
In his later years, Woolery brought his voice to the world of podcasting, cohosting “Blunt Force Truth” alongside Young, where he showcased his wit and unique perspective.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
