‘Let’s Make a Deal’ Host Monty Dead at 96

Monty Hall, longtime host of the popular TV game show "Let's Make a Deal", passed away on Saturday at the age of 96.

According to his son Richard Hall, his father died at his home in Beverly Hills, likely of heart failure.

Hall was the co-creator of "Let's Make a Deal" and hosted more than 4,000 episodes from 1963 to 1986. Then the show ran again in 1990 and 1991.

The show featured audience members dressed up in a variety of costumes as they shrieked for Monty to give them a chance to win a prize, from a new home stereo system to a new car. But sometimes the prizes were a "zonk", a gag gift such as a live donkey or a wrecked car.

Hall also produced other game shows, hosted variety shows and appeared as a guest star on television series.

He was also known for charity work with organizations such as Variety Club International, which raised money for disadvantaged children.

"Many people know my father as an icon on TV but he was also a tireless supporter of charities that meant as much to him as his TV work," Richard Hall said.

"Let's Make a Deal" continues on today with host Wayne Brady.

Hall was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1973.

Monty Hall is survived by two daughters and a son (all of which are in show-business in one facet or another) along with five grandchildren. His wife of almost 70 years, Marilyn, died in June.