born July 6, 1925, San Mateo, Calif., U.S.
U.S. television producer and entrepreneur.
He hosted a radio show (1945–48) and sang with Freddy Martin's Orchestra (1948–52) before creating and hosting the popular Merv Griffin Show on television (1962–63, 1965–86). He also created the successful game shows Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune . He later owned hotels, resorts, and casinos.