Who was Peter Marshall? Everything about the famous and long-time presenter of Hollywood Squares, who dies at the age of 98

Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of death.

Peter Marshall, who was known for his talent as a presenter, has died at the age of 98. He was the original host of The Hollywood Squares and was highly regarded for his comedic skills throughout his career.

Marshall, who was also once part of the Army, died of kidney failure on August 15, 2024. The death of the talented personality was confirmed by his publicist Harlan Boll, who delivered the sad news to the Associated Press. Meanwhile, according to Variety, it was also his wife who reported the death of Peter Marshall.

The talented Peter Marshall passed away at his home in Encino, California. However, he was born in Huntington, West Virginia, as Ralph Pierre LaCock, who rose to fame as the host of the Emmy-winning hit game show.

During his career as host of The Hollywood Squares, Marshall entertained his loyal audience in more than 5,000 episodes while he was part of the game show from 1966 to 1980. In addition to sharing his talent with the aforementioned game show, Marshall even hosted a syndicated nighttime version of the same series from 1971 to 1981.

Peter Marshall began his career at the age of 15 and initially worked as a page and usher at NBC Radio. He began his career at the Paramount Theater in Times Square.

In 1944 he was drafted into the army and during this time worked as a presenter for Armed Forces Radio.

After the war, Marshall formed a comedy duo with Tommy Noonan in 1949. The team appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show and also attracted audiences in theaters and nightclubs.

During the next decade of his career, Marshall became a contract actor for Twentieth Century Fox, appearing in films such as The Rookie (1959), Swingin' Along (1961), Ensign Pulver (1964), and The Cavern (1964).

As for his stage performances, Marshall starred opposite the late Chita Rivera in Bye Bye Birdie, a London West End production in 1962. He also appeared in the 1965 Broadway production of Skyscraper with Julie Harris and acted in High Button Shoes, Anything Goes, The Music Man and 42nd Street.

Soon, within the next two years, he got the job as host of “Hollywood Squares,” where Marshall entertained large audiences and numerous celebrities.

Peter Marshall is survived by his wife Laurie, his children Suzanne Browning and Jaime Dimarco, and his son, Chicago Cubs player Pete LaCock.

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