Peter Marshall, famously known as the original host of The Hollywood Squares, has passed away at the age of 98. He began his career in the army, posted in Italy in 1944, and was released two years later as a staff sergeant. Marshall then took up a job at a radio station and eventually transitioned into acting, starring in several television shows.
Here’s everything you need to know about the reason behind Peter Marshall’s death.
Game show host Peter Marshall dead at 98, claims report
Peter Marshall, born Ralph Pierre LaCock, died at the age of 98 on Thursday morning. Marshall’s publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed his demise to the Los Angeles Times in an official statement. The reason behind his death was cited as kidney failure. His family was around him at the time of death in his Encino neighborhood in L.A.
After being released from the army, Marshall pursued a comedy and acting career in Hollywood. Initially, he starred in multiple shows and movies while also performing at nightclubs. He went through a difficult time securing consistent gigs in acting projects. At that time, NBC‘s Hollywood Squares opportunity presented itself. He got offered a game-show host role, replacing Bert Parks. Marshall earned massive recognition for the show despite reportedly not wanting it. He then went on to spend 15 years at Hollywood Squares.
In an interview with the Archive of American Television, Marshall spoke about his stint as the host of the iconic game show. “It was the easiest thing I’ve ever done in show business. I walked in and said, ‘Hello stars,’ I read questions and laughed. And it paid very well,” he said (via AP News).
Aside from being a host and actor, Marshall has also contributed significantly to Broadway productions and music. He bid farewell to the entertainment industry back in 2021.
