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Aug. 26 (UPI) —
Bob Barker, known for his iconic role as the host of “Price is Right” and his work as an animal rights advocate, has died of natural causes at his home in Los Angeles. He was 99 years old.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce that Bob Barker, the World’s Greatest MC, has passed away,” said his representative, Roger Neal, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had a wonderful life,” Neal told ABC News.
CBS also released a statement, saying, “We lost a beloved member of the CBS family today with the passing of Bob Barker. During his 35 years as host of ‘The Price is Right,’ Bob made countless people’s dreams come true and everyone feel like a winner when they were called to ‘come on down.’ In addition to his legendary 50-year career in broadcasting, Bob will be remembered as a dedicated animal rights activist. Daytime television has lost one of its most iconic stars.”
Barker had a successful career in television, hosting the game show “Truth or Consequences” from 1956 to 1975, as well as other shows like “Dream Girl of ’67,” “Tattletales,” and the “Miss Universe” pageants. He is best known for hosting “The Price is Right” from 1972 to 2007.
Barker’s successor, Drew Carey, paid tribute to him on Twitter, saying, “Very sad day for the Price Is Right family, and animal lovers all over the world. There hasn’t been a day on set that I didn’t think of Bob Barker and thank him. I will carry his memory in my heart forever. #RIPBobBarker We love you.”
PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) also released a statement honoring Barker’s commitment to animal rights. “Bob’s influence on the entertainment industry is indisputable, but what mattered to him most was using his voice and prominent position to protect animals. He will always be remembered as a national animal rights treasure,” they said.
Celebrities, including Adam Sandler, also expressed their sadness over Barker’s passing. Sandler, who starred alongside Barker in the 1996 comedy “Happy Gilmore,” posted on Twitter, “The man. The myth. The best. Such a sweet funny guy to hang out with. Loved talking to him. Loved laughing with him. He will be missed by everyone I know! Heartbreaking day. Love to Bob always and his family! Thanks for all you gave us!”
Barker’s contributions to television and animal rights will always be remembered, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy.
Ron Cephas Jones
Ron Cephas Jones, known for his Emmy-winning role in “This is Us” and for his appearances in “He Got Game,” “Across the Universe,” “Luke Cage,” and more, has passed away at the age of 66. (File Photo by Gregg DeGuire/UPI)
