Bob Barker, the renowned host of “The Price is Right,” passed away at the age of 99 on Saturday. Barker died at his Hollywood Hills home due to natural causes. His friend, Nancy Burnet, confirmed the news and expressed her grief. Barker held the record for hosting the most game show episodes, a total of 6,828, until it was surpassed by Alex Trebek in 2014.
Aside from his work in television, Barker was known for his extensive philanthropy and activism for animal rights. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals honored him by naming a building after him in 2012. Burnet spoke highly of their collaborative efforts to improve the welfare of animals in the entertainment industry and beyond. Barker’s contributions will be greatly missed.
Born in 1923 in Washington, Barker grew up on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. He pursued a broadcasting career in Southern California after attending Drury College on a basketball scholarship and serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve during World War II. Barker hosted various radio shows before finding success with “Truth or Consequences” in 1956.
Barker’s version of “The Price is Right” premiered in 1972 and became a beloved show for millions of Americans. Contestants eagerly awaited the famous line, “Come on down!” from announcers Johnny Olson and later Rod Roddy. The show’s creative games and connection to everyday concerns resonated with working and middle-class viewers. Barker’s ability to put contestants at ease and celebrate their victories endeared him to audiences. He hosted the show until his final episode in 2007, after which Drew Carey took over as host.
Carey joined the chorus of those mourning Barker’s passing, expressing gratitude for Barker’s influence on the show. Barker received numerous accolades throughout his career, including 19 daytime Emmys, five of which were for outstanding game show host. Despite the success of the show, there were controversies surrounding Barker and the program, including allegations of sexual harassment and wrongful termination from some of the models known as “Barker’s Beauties.”
In addition to his work on “The Price is Right,” Barker hosted the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants from 1967 to 1987. He made headlines in 1988 when he quit hosting Miss Universe after the pageant continued to offer fur coats as prizes. Barker gained popularity among younger generations with his appearance in the film “Happy Gilmore” alongside Adam Sandler. The film’s famous fight scene on a golf course further endeared Barker to audiences.
Throughout his life, Barker remained committed to animal welfare. He promoted the spaying and neutering of pets through public service announcements and founded the DJ&T Foundation to tackle animal overpopulation. Barker donated millions of dollars to various animal causes, supporting efforts to relocate wild animals from zoos to sanctuaries and funding animal rights education at law schools.
Barker’s legacy will be forever remembered in the television industry and the fight for animal rights. His impact on many lives, both on and off the screen, will not be forgotten.
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