Beloved game show host Bob Barker has passed away at the age of 99. Barker, who became a household name after hosting the popular game shows “Truth or Consequences” and “The Price Is Right,” died on Saturday morning at his home in Los Angeles. In addition to his successful career in television, Barker was also a committed animal rights activist.
Nancy Burnet, Barker’s longtime friend and co-executor of his estate, expressed pride in the work they did together to raise awareness of animal cruelty. Barker had been an outspoken advocate for improving the treatment of animals in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Barker’s career in television began in 1956 when he was invited to audition for the host of “Truth or Consequences.” He remained with the show for 18 years before transitioning to host a revived version of “The Price Is Right” on CBS in 1972. The show would go on to become the longest-running game show on TV.
CBS released a statement acknowledging the loss of one of their “most iconic stars” and praised Barker for his ability to make people feel like winners on his game shows. Barker’s dedication to his work was evident in the more than 5,000 shows he taped throughout his career. He decided to retire in 2007, stating that the physical demands of the show were becoming too much for him. Comedian Drew Carey was chosen as his replacement.
Barker’s impact extended far beyond the world of television. He spent 20 years hosting the Miss USA Pageant and the Miss Universe Pageant and used his platform to advocate for animal rights. Barker famously ended every episode of “The Price Is Right” by encouraging viewers to have their pets spayed or neutered.
Throughout his career, Barker maintained a sense of dignity and respect for his contestants. He played the game straight, never mocking the format or the people who participated. Barker’s warm and gracious personality endeared him to viewers, and he attributed his longevity in the industry to his genuine enjoyment of his work.
In addition to his success, Barker also faced some controversy during his career. He was sued for sexual harassment by former “Price Is Right” model Dian Parkinson in 1994 but maintained that their relationship was consensual. The lawsuit was eventually dropped. Barker also faced allegations of firing another former model, Holly Hallstrom, due to her weight, which he denied.
Despite these disputes, Barker remained beloved by his audience. Born in Darrington, Washington, in 1923, he had a humble background, spending part of his childhood on an Indian Reservation and serving in World War II. Barker was married to his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Jo Gideon, until her death in 1981.
Barker received numerous accolades throughout his career, including a lifetime achievement award at the Daytime Emmy Awards in 1999. His famous signoff, “Have your pets spayed or neutered,” became synonymous with his name. Bob Barker leaves behind a lasting legacy as a game show host and animal rights advocate, and his memory will be cherished by his fans and colleagues alike.