Bob Barker, the beloved host of the iconic game show “The Price is Right,” passed away on Saturday at the age of 99. Barker died in his Hollywood Hills home of natural causes, according to an announcement made by his longtime friend and co-executor of his estate, Nancy Burnet.
Barker was a television legend, known for hosting a record-breaking 6,828 game show episodes. His impressive hosting career was recognized by many, including the late Alex Trebek, who broke his record in 2014 as the host of “Jeopardy!”. Roger Neal, who made the announcement of Barker’s passing, referred to him as “the World’s Greatest MC who ever lived.”
In addition to his successful career in television, Barker was also a notable philanthropist and animal rights activist. In 2012, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) honored him by naming a building after him at their Los Angeles headquarters. Burnet praised Barker’s work alongside PETA, saying, “We were great friends over these 40 years. He will be missed.”
Barker was born in 1923 in Darrington, Washington, and spent his childhood on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. After college on a basketball scholarship, he moved to Southern California to pursue a career in broadcasting. He gained early success as the host of “Truth or Consequences” in 1956 before reviving “The Price is Right” in 1972.
“The Price is Right” quickly became a staple of American television, featuring entertaining games and giving away extravagant prizes. Barker was known for his ability to connect with contestants and create a comfortable atmosphere on set. His final episode as host aired in 2007, and he was succeeded by Drew Carey.
Barker’s impact extended beyond television. He hosted the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants for two decades and appeared in the successful film “Happy Gilmore” alongside Adam Sandler. The film’s famous fight scene between Barker and Sandler on a golf course brought unexpected popularity to “The Price is Right.”
Throughout his life, Barker used his platform to support animal rights. He was a vegetarian and actively promoted spaying and neutering of pets through public service announcements. Barker established the DJ&T Foundation to control animal population and donated millions of dollars to various animal causes, including efforts to move animals from zoos to sanctuaries.
His generosity extended beyond animal welfare, as Barker also donated to organizations such as the Semper Fi Fund, which assists injured members of the U.S. armed forces and their families.
Bob Barker will be remembered not only as a legendary game show host but also as a compassionate advocate for animals and a philanthropist. His impact on television and the world will be cherished by fans and loved ones alike.
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