Peter Marshall , Emmy-award winning game show host of “Hollywood Squares,” died of kidney failure Thursday in Encino. He was 98.

His wife Laurie said in a statement that he died at home.

Nominated for 19 Emmy Awards, winning five, he hosted over 5,000 episodes of the original version of the game show “ The Hollywood Squares ” and appeared in numerous movies, stage productions, and television programs.

Marshall was born Ralph Pierre LaCock in Huntington, W.V. He started his career as an NBC Radio page and usher at Paramount Theater. He served in the Army, working as a d.j. for Armed Forces Radio.

Marshall created a comedy act with Tommy Noonan, touring the country and appearing on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Under contract with 20th Century Fox, he appeared in films like “Ensign Pulver,” “The Rookie” and “Annie.”

In 1966, he was hired to host NBC's long-running game show “The Hollywood Squares,” which featured regular panelists like Paul Lynde, Joan Rivers, and Rose Marie, along with numerous guest stars. The unique format, based on a giant tic-tac-toe board, allowed a diverse range of celebrities to showcase their quick wit and deliver clever one-liners known as “zingers.”

Marshall went on to host shows like “The Peter Marshall Variety Show,” “Big Bands From Disneyland,” the audience participation series “Fantasy” featuring Leslie Uggams, and game shows such as “All-Star Blitz” and “Yahtzee.”

He made guest appearances on various television shows, including “The Love Boat,” “Hotel,” “WKRP in Cincinnati,” “Love American Style,” “Lou Grant” and others.

The multi-talented actor, emcee, and singer also produced and toured with big band shows and released several albums. He hosted a show on the Music of Your Life radio network as well as hosting musical specials for PBS. His memoir, “Backstage With the Original Hollywood Square.”

A lifelong animal advocate, Marshall recently participated in a 50th anniversary celebration for Betty White's Pet Set, hosted the Doris Day 90th Celebration and narrated “Wait for Your Laugh,” a documentary about his friend and colleague Rose Marie.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Laurie, daughters Suzanne Browning (David) and Jaime Dimarco (Steve), son Pete LaCock (Janna), and predeceased by his son David LaCock, as well as 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Donations may be made to either Actors & Others for Animals , the Lange Foundation or the Mercy Kids Therapy and Development Center .