Who Was Peter Marshall? All About Famous And Longtime Host Of The Hollywood Squares As He Passes Away At 98

As a devoted admirer of the entertainment world, I have to say that the passing of Peter Marshall leaves a significant void. A man who started his career as a mere NBC Radio page and usher at the tender age of 15, and went on to become a household name, was more than just a game show host – he was an entertainer, a comedian, and a true artist.


98-year-old Peter Marshall, famed for his hosting abilities, has sadly passed away. He was the initial host of “The Hollywood Squares” and was greatly admired throughout his career for his witty humor.

On August 15, 2024, Peter Marshall, a former army member and a renowned figure, passed away due to kidney failure. His demise was confirmed by his publicist, Harlan Boll, who shared the unfortunate news with The Associated Press. It was also reported by Variety that his wife announced the passing of Peter Marshall.

Originally born as Ralph Pierre LaCock in Huntington, West Virginia, it was at his residence in Encino, California where the renowned game show host, Peter Marshall, passed away. He became well-known for hosting an Emmy Award-winning television game show.

For over fifteen years, from 1966 to 1980, and then again from 1971 to 1981, Marshall delightfully hosted The Hollywood Squares on television, performing in more than 5,000 episodes of the popular game show.

At just fifteen years old, Peter Marshall started his professional journey with roles as an NBC Radio messenger and usher at the Paramount Theater in Times Square, marking the beginning of his career.

Then, in 1944, he was drafted into the army, during which he hosted for Armed Forces Radio.

After the war concluded, Marshall formed a comedy duo with Tommy Noonan in 1949. They showcased their act on The Ed Sullivan Show, and drew crowds not only to television screens but also to theaters and nightclubs alike.

In the following decade of his career, Marshall landed a movie contract with Twentieth Century Fox and starred in films like “The Rookie” from 1959, “Swingin’ Along” in 1961, “Ensign Pulver” and “The Cavern,” both released in 1964.

In 1962, Marshall appeared alongside Chita Rivera in the London West End production of Bye Bye Birdie. Earlier, in 1965, he was part of the Broadway productions of Skyscraper with Julie Harris. His stage performances also included roles in High Button Shoes, Anything Goes, The Music Man, and 42nd Street.

In the following two years, he landed the hosting role on Hollywood Squares, a position that allowed Marshall to delight numerous audiences and many famous personalities.

Peter Marshall leaves behind his wife Laurie, as well as his daughters Suzanne Browning and Jaime Dimarco, and his son, professional baseball player Pete LaCock.

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2024-08-16 10:40