The television world recently mourned the passing of a legend, Bob Barker, a charismatic game show host who captivated audiences for over five decades. Off-screen, Barker was an ardent animal rights activist whose influence extended far beyond the confines of the television set.
The Early Life of Bob Barker
Born Robert William Barker on December 12, 1923, in Darrington, Washington, Barker’s early years were a mix of small-town charm and cultural immersion. His childhood saw him moving to the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota after the untimely death of his father, Byron Barker, a power line foreman who passed away due to workplace accident complications. Barker’s mother, Matilda, a schoolteacher, later remarried and relocated the family to Springfield, Missouri.
Barker’s Foray into Broadcasting
Barker’s broadcasting career began in radio. He landed his first job at a radio station in Florida, where his smooth delivery quickly caught the attention of industry bigwigs. By 1950, Barker had moved to California, launching his own radio program, “The Bob Barker Show,” in Burbank.
His radio success led Barker to television, where he landed his first game show role in 1956 on NBC’s “Truth or Consequences.” The show was a hit, and Barker would remain its host for an impressive 18 years until it ceased airing.
The Price Is Right: A Career-Defining Opportunity
In 1972, Barker was offered the opportunity to host “The Price Is Right,” a game show that had seen its popularity wane since its heyday in the late ’50s. Barker’s charismatic hosting style breathed new life into the show, and it has remained on air ever since, even a decade and a half after Barker’s retirement.
During his tenure on “The Price Is Right,” Barker distinguished himself with his unique ability to interact with regular people selected as contestants. His charm and affable manner endeared him to the audience, helping the show become the longest-running daytime game show in TV history by 1990. Barker’s commitment and talent earned him a staggering 19 Daytime Emmy Awards, 14 as host of “The Price Is Right.”
Scandal and Controversy
Despite his successful career, Barker’s television image took a hit in 1994 when Dian Parkinson, a former “Price Is Right” model, accused him of threatening to fire her if she didn’t sleep with him. Barker admitted to having an off-screen relationship with Parkinson, though he insisted it was consensual. The scandal did not prevent Barker from receiving an Emmy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Personal Life and Love Story
Barker’s personal life was marked by a profound love story. He married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Jo Gideon, in 1945, and the couple remained together until Gideon’s death from lung cancer in 1981. Barker never remarried, maintaining that Gideon had been the love of his life.
A Voice for Animal Rights
Beyond his television career, Barker was a passionate advocate for animal rights. His commitment was evident in his work on “The Price Is Right,” where he ended each episode with a plea to the audience: “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.”
Bob Barker and his wife on the set of “Here’s Hollywood,” with his wife Dorothy Jo Barker. NBC / NBCUniversal via Getty Images
To further his cause, Barker established a charity in 1995, the DJ&T Foundation, which provided free or low-cost spay and neuter services for pet owners. His dedication saw him make significant donations to numerous universities for the study of animal rights law and actively campaign against the use of animals in entertainment and military medical drills.
Barker’s Later Years and Legacy
In his later years, Barker faced multiple health challenges, including minor bouts of skin cancer and several falls that required hospitalization. Despite these setbacks, his spirit remained undimmed.
Barker’s legacy extends far beyond his career as one of television’s most beloved hosts. His passionate advocacy for animal rights had a significant impact on the entertainment industry and continues to inspire others to champion the cause. He will be remembered not only as a television icon but also as a tireless advocate for animals.
Barker passed away at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 99. His death leaves a void in the television world and the animal rights community, but his work and dedication will continue to inspire generations to come. As we remember Bob Barker, we also honor his legacy—a testament to a life well lived and a reminder of the difference one person can make.
