Bob Barker, the beloved host of game shows “Truth or Consequences” and “The Price Is Right,” has passed away at the age of 99. Apart from being a legendary game show host, he was also a prominent animal rights activist. Barker died at his home in Los Angeles, according to his publicist Roger Neal.
Nancy Burnet, Barker’s longtime friend and co-executor of his estate, praised his work to improve the lives of abused and exploited animals. She said, “I am so proud of the trailblazing work Barker and I did together to expose the cruelty to animals in the entertainment industry and including working to improve the plight of abused and exploited animals in the United States and internationally.”
Bob Barker retired in 2007, expressing his gratitude to the audience for welcoming him into their homes for over 50 years. He started his career in radio before being invited to host “Truth or Consequences” in 1956.
After 18 years on “Truth or Consequences,” Barker began hosting “The Price Is Right” in 1972. The show became the longest-running game show on television and Barker’s hosting style, characterized by warmth, graciousness, and wit, endeared him to audiences for decades.
In addition to his work on game shows, Barker spent 20 years as the host of the Miss USA Pageant and the Miss Universe Pageant. He was also known for his advocacy of animal rights, urging viewers to have their pets spayed or neutered and successfully lobbying to ban fur coats as prizes on “The Price Is Right.”
“The Price Is Right” taped over 5,000 shows during Barker’s tenure. He retired in 2007, passing the baton to comedian Drew Carey. Barker made a guest appearance on the show in 2009 to promote his memoir, “Priceless Memories.”
CBS, the network that aired “The Price Is Right,” paid tribute to Barker, stating that daytime television had lost one of its most iconic stars. Barker’s impact on the show and the countless people he made feel like winners when they were called to “come on down” will always be remembered.
Bob Barker’s contribution to entertainment and animal rights activism will never be forgotten. His kind spirit and love for animals continue to inspire those who knew him.
