In 1972, several important things happened. Don McLean’s famous song “American Pie” was a big hit, Richard Nixon was the president during the Watergate Scandal, NASA started its Space Shuttle program, and Bob Barker, the lively host of a game show called “The Price is Right,” was giving away new cars worth less than $4000.
Bob Barker, known for hosting The Price is Right, became famous over 35 years. This year, he turns 100, which is an incredible achievement.
Bob Barker was born on an Indian reservation in South Dakota. While serving in the United States Navy Reserve, he became a fighter pilot during World War II. It was at an Ella Fitzgerald concert that he met his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Jo Gideon. They got married in 1945. After leaving the Navy, Barker decided to pursue a degree in economics.
Barker’s rise to fame started when he grabbed the interest of game show producer Ralph Edwards while hosting a radio program in Los Angeles. Edwards was on the lookout for a fresh face to host the TV game show Truth or Consequences. Barker’s charm and wit captivated viewers from 1956 to 1975 on the show, making him incredibly popular. In 1967, he added hosting duties for the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants to his repertoire. However, it was in 1972 when Barker took center stage on The Price is Right, catapulting himself and the show to unparalleled stardom.
The Price is Right is the longest-running game show ever. Barker, who became an executive producer in 1988, won 14 Daytime Emmy Awards for being an outstanding game show host and four Emmys for his role as executive producer.
Partnerships and Philanthropy
In an interview with the Television Academy Foundation, Barker expressed his deep appreciation for his late wife, acknowledging her as the driving force behind his prosperous career. He mentioned, “She not only encouraged me, but also actively supported me every step of the way.” Unfortunately, Gideon lost her battle with lung cancer in 1981 at the age of 57, after 36 years of marriage.
Bob Barker has discovered love anew with Nancy Burnet, his companion for four decades. Burnet is convinced that Barker’s minimal reliance on medication throughout the years has greatly influenced his good health. Even at the age of 99, Barker only relies on a single prescription medication for his thyroid. His commitment to a healthy way of life, which includes being a vegetarian for a long time, has played a crucial part in his overall well-being and energy.
Throughout his career, Barker has made numerous guest appearances, including a memorable visit to The Price is Right on his 90th birthday. He never grew tired of the show and always approached it with enthusiasm. His infectious energy and passion for entertaining audiences contributed to the show’s success.
But beyond the glitz and glamour of show business, Bob Barker has used his platform to advocate for animal rights. Inspired by his late wife, who was ahead of her time in terms of ethical choices, Barker made a lasting impact in this realm. He actively supports animal rights organizations through his DJ&T Foundation, which he named after his wife and his mother, Matilda or “Tilly,” who were both passionate about animals. Barker has donated millions of dollars to establish animal-rights curricula in law schools, including prestigious institutions like Harvard, Columbia, and Northwestern.
Nancy Burnet, whom Barker met at an animal adoption event he hosted in 1983, is a strong advocate for animal welfare alongside Barker. Together, they campaign against animal entertainment and work to raise awareness about the mistreatment of animals.
Bob Barker’s incredible journey spans almost a century, marked by numerous achievements and contributions. His impact on the world, both as an entertainer and an animal activist, is unrivaled. We are privileged to have such a compassionate and dedicated individual like Barker, who utilizes his celebrity status to improve the lives of innocent animals.
