Chuck Woolery, Iconic Game Show Host of Love Connection and Scrabble, Passes Away at 83

Chuck Woolery, the well-known game show host and podcaster, has died at age 83. His friend Mark Young confirmed that Woolery passed away at his home in Texas, with his wife present.

Woolery hosted popular shows like Wheel of Fortune, Love Connection, and Scrabble. He was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and received a daytime Emmy nomination in 1978.

Woolery became the host of Love Connection in 1983 and ran it for 11 years, famously using the phrase “We’ll be back in two minutes and two seconds.” This catchy line became known as the “2 and 2.” The show’s concept involved singles watching audition tapes of potential dates before selecting one.

Woolery’s charm and wit made him a favorite on television. He also hosted Lingo, Greed, and the short-lived revival of The Dating Game from 1998 to 2000. In 1992, he appeared as himself in two episodes of Melrose Place.

Woolery originally began his career in music. He served in the U.S. Navy before forming a folk trio and later the psychedelic rock duo, the Avant-Garde, which had a hit with “Naturally Stoned.” He then transitioned to country music and wrote songs for several artists, including Pat Boone and Tammy Wynette.

Later in his career, Woolery moved into podcasting. He became politically active and hosted the podcast Blunt Force Truth with Mark Young. He expressed conservative views and supported Donald Trump, often making controversial statements, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Woolery is survived by his wife, Kristen, and his three children—Michael, Sean, and Melissa.