Farewell to Bob Barker, the Beloved Host of ‘The Price Is Right’ at the Age of 99

Culture Matters: Remembering Bob Barker, Beloved Host of “The Price Is Right”

The Passing of a Television Legend

Bob Barker, the iconic host of television’s “The Price Is Right,” has passed away at the age of 99, according to his longtime publicist Roger Neal. Barker, known for his comfort-food charm and deadpan humor, became a staple on American television screens for more than five decades. His contribution to the entertainment industry and his commitment to animal welfare will be dearly missed.

A Game Show Jackpot

When producers hired Barker to host “The Price Is Right” in 1972, they struck gold. The game show had lost its luster over the years and had been rejected by two networks before finding a home at CBS. Barker’s charisma and interaction with the contestants breathed new life into the show, allowing it to continue airing for another 35 years even after his retirement.

Robert Thompson, director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture at Syracuse University, believes that Barker’s extended career was one of the reasons he became such an iconic game show host. From the black-and-white era of television to the new century, Barker’s presence resonated with viewers on two popular shows, “The Price Is Right” and “Truth or Consequences.” Unlike some hosts who stood behind a podium, Barker engaged with regular people, creating a genuine connection that made him particularly adept at his craft.

A Life of Accomplishments

Robert William Barker was born in Darrington, Washington, in 1923. After the passing of his father in a workplace accident, he moved with his mother to a Sioux Indian reservation in Mission, South Dakota. Barker’s journey eventually led him to Missouri, where he attended Drury College and graduated with a degree in economics.

Barker’s smooth delivery and on-air presence caught the attention of television producers, resulting in his first game show gig on “Truth or Consequences” in 1956. This marked the beginning of a long and successful career that included hosting “The Price Is Right,” as well as the Miss Universe and Miss America pageants and the New Year’s Day Tournament of Roses Parade.

A Controversial Moment

In 1994, Barker faced a significant challenge to his public image when a former “Price Is Right” model filed a lawsuit alleging that he had threatened to fire her if she did not engage in a sexual relationship with him. Although the lawsuit was ultimately dropped, Barker publicly acknowledged that he had an unprofessional relationship with the model. Despite this scandal, Barker went on to receive an Emmy Award for Lifetime Achievement, and his impact on the entertainment industry remained undeniable.

Animal Welfare Advocate

Barker’s passion for animal rights and welfare was a prominent aspect of his life. He became well-known for ending each episode of “The Price Is Right” with his plea to “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.” In 1995, Barker founded the DJ&T Foundation, named after his late wife and her mother, which provided spaying and neutering services for pet owners. His dedication to the cause stemmed from his early days on “The Price Is Right,” where he refused to give away fur coats as prizes.

Barker’s efforts extended beyond the television screen. In 2013, he donated $1 million to relocate three captive elephants from the Toronto Zoo to a sanctuary in California. His friend Nancy Burnet praised Barker for his work in exposing animal cruelty and improving the lives of abused and exploited animals.

A Fond Farewell

The passing of Bob Barker leaves a significant void in the world of television and philanthropy. His unique presence, warmth, and dedication to animal welfare have left an indelible mark on the industry. As his longtime friend Nancy Burnet mentioned, Barker will be remembered for his trailblazing work in raising awareness about animal cruelty and his impactful efforts to improve the lives of animals.

Advice for Carrying Forward Bob Barker’s Legacy

In honor of Bob Barker’s legacy, it is crucial to remember and uphold the values he stood for. Advocating for causes close to one’s heart, treating others with kindness and respect, and striving for social change are just a few ways to preserve Barker’s impact. Whether it is in the entertainment industry or our personal lives, we can all learn from Barker’s dedication to making a positive difference in the world.