Merv Griffin Dies

Before Dave or Jay there was Merv. Now, just like his afternoon talk show, the man is a memory.

Merv Griffin, the former band singer who went on to be one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, has died at the age of 82. Recently, his failing health had made headlines, after Griffin was hospitalized for recurring prostate cancer.

Aside from helming "The Merv Griffin Show" from 1962 to 1986, the mogul went on to produce classic game shows including "Wheel of Fortune" and "Jeopardy!"

According to Entertainment Weekly, Griffin is survived by his son, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. -- Rachel Cericola