Bob Barker, the iconic host of “The Price is Right,” has passed away at 99.
We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of the renowned game show host, Bob Barker, as relayed by his spokesperson Roger Neal to Fox News Digital.
Barker’s demise was due to natural causes at his Hollywood Hills residence.
The announcement was shared by Neal on behalf of Nancy Burnett, Barker’s close friend who played a significant role in his well-being and health for several years. Burnett also holds a crucial position in managing Barker’s estate.
Celebrated with 19 Emmys, Barker is best remembered for hosting “The Price is Right” for more than three decades on CBS, making it the longest-standing game show in North America’s TV history. Five of his Emmys celebrated him as the top game show host.
Barker began his broadcasting journey in radio in 1956 when he was given the opportunity to host “Truth or Consequences.” Following an 18-year stint with this show, he transitioned to “The Price is Right” in 1972.
Having recorded over 5,000 episodes of “The Price is Right,” Barker bid farewell in 2007, expressing gratitude for over half a century of audience love and support. Comedian Drew Carey stepped into his shoes thereafter.
Paying tribute on a platform formerly known as Twitter, Carey wrote, “A mournful day for the Price Is Right community and animal advocates worldwide. Bob Barker’s legacy is ever-present. We cherish his memory. #RIPBobBarker.”
Barker rejoined Carey for a special episode in 2009, aligning with the release of his memoir, “Priceless Memories.”
Beyond his television prominence, Barker was a staunch advocate for animal rights, urging viewers to promote pet neutering. His convictions led him to rally against fur prizes on his show and even resign from the Miss USA Pageant over fur coat awards in 1987.
A few controversies surfaced in Barker’s career, including lawsuits with “Price is Right” models, which eventually settled.
The renowned host had a brief but memorable role opposite comedian Adam Sandler in “Happy Gilmore,” to which Sandler reminisced on Instagram, sharing heartfelt memories and pictures.
Born in Darrington, Washington, in 1923, Barker spent his early years on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Recognized as a Sioux tribe member, Barker pursued higher education on a basketball scholarship at Drury University and enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve during World War II.
Post-war, Barker’s broadcasting aspirations took him to California, where he eventually landed “The Bob Barker Show” on radio, which preceded his television ventures.
Throughout his career, Barker made special appearances on several shows, was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Daytime Emmy Awards in 1999, and was a generous philanthropist, especially towards animal rights causes.
His family includes half-brother Kent Valandra and other half-relatives. He was predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Dorothy Jo Gideon, in 1981.
