• The Hollywood Reporter, Monday, August 13, 2007 11:15 AM

Merv Griffin, a former talk-show host turned billionaire from his investments in real estate and the creation of games shows like "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" died Sunday of prostate cancer at the age of 82. Griffin spent 23 years hosting an eponymous talk show that was often the most successful syndicated program on American TV. He also owned 17 hotels at his peak, along with casinos in Atlantic City and the Bahamas.

Says former U.S. First Lady Nancy Reagan, who knew him for 50 years and sought his comfort after the death of her husband, "He was a dear, dear friend." Friends and associates describe him as a savvy businessman with charm that masked determination and toughness. "I'd rather play "Jeopardy!" than live it," Griffin joked as he went to the hospital last month.

Griffin, who also wrote the "Jeopardy" music, says that tune took him about 30 minutes to create, but eventually earned him more than $80 million in royalties. "Merv knew everyone," says "Wheel" host Pat Sajak. "When you were with him, you rubbed shoulders with the most exciting and famous people on the planet. The conversation in heaven has gotten a lot more lively."

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