Iconic Game Show Host Bob Barker Passes Away at 99
LOS ANGELES – Bob Barker, the legendary American game show host and animal rights activist, has died at the age of 99. According to sources at TMZ, Barker passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on Saturday morning due to natural causes.
Barker gained fame as the longtime host of “The Price Is Right,” but his career in game shows began when he was discovered by renowned producer Ralph Edwards. Edwards heard Barker’s radio show and recruited him to host the television show “Truth or Consequences” in 1956. Barker went on to host several other game shows and programs, including “Dream Girl of ’67,” “Tattletales,” and “Miss Universe.” However, it was his role as the producer and host of “The Price Is Right” that brought him the most recognition, a role he held until 2007 when he passed the baton to Drew Carey.
In addition to his game show career, Barker made appearances in various TV shows and films, often portraying himself. He famously engaged in a fight with actor Adam Sandler in the film “Happy Gilmore” and played a fictional version of himself in shows like “How I Met Your Mother,” “Futurama,” and “Spongebob.”
Throughout his life, Barker battled minor bouts of skin cancer and experienced several health scares. He suffered multiple falls, the most recent taking place in 2019, which required treatment at the hospital. Despite these challenges, Barker remained resilient and took the COVID-19 pandemic in stride.
The late game show host’s wife, Dorothy Jo, passed away from lung cancer in 1981. The couple had no children, and Barker never remarried. However, he had extended family members who supported and cared for him in his later years.
Bob Barker will be remembered for his charismatic presence on television and his passionate advocacy for animal rights. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Bob Barker.