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Remembering Bob Barker: What We Loved About The Legendary Game Show Host

2023-08-28

His catchphrase - Bob Barker was known for his iconic catchphrase "Come on down!" which he used to call contestants to the stage on The Price is Right. His catchphrase was so popular that it was even included in the lyrics of the show's theme song.
His signature style - Bob Barker was known for his signature style of hosting, which often included telling jokes and interacting with the audience. He was also known for his impeccable fashion sense, which included a perfectly pressed suit and a slicked-back hairstyle.
His philanthropy - Bob Barker was a passionate advocate for animal rights and was involved in numerous charities. He also donated millions of dollars to various animal charities throughout his lifetime.
His longevity - Bob Barker hosted The Price is Right for an impressive 35 years, making him one of the longest-serving game show hosts in history. His tenure on the show was so successful that it earned him a place in the Guinness World Records.
His influence - Bob Barker's influence can still be felt today, with his catchphrase, style, and philanthropy inspiring many of today's game show hosts. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest game show hosts of all time.

2023-08-26

The Price Is Right - The longest-running game show in the U.S., Bob Barker hosted The Price Is Right from 1972 to 2007. This show was revolutionary in its use of audience participation, product placement, and the "showcase showdown" where contestants could win prizes.
Truth or Consequences - Bob Barker's first game show was Truth or Consequences, which ran from 1956 to 1975. It was the first show to feature audience participation, and Barker was the perfect host to keep the show lively and entertaining.
End of Show Sign-off - Barker's famous sign-off, "Help control the pet population, have your pets spayed or neutered," was a way for him to encourage responsible pet ownership. He was so passionate about this cause that he even established the DJ&T Foundation, which provides grants to help people pay for spaying or neutering their pets.
Contestant Appearances - Barker was known for his welcoming attitude to contestants, often giving them hugs and talking with them at length. He also surprised them with gifts, such as a trip to Hawaii or a new car. His kindness made contestants feel comfortable and welcomed.
Game Show Innovations - Barker introduced many innovations to the game show genre, including the use of multiple cameras to show the audience's reaction and the use of sound effects to heighten the drama. He also increased the prize values, adding cars and vacations to the mix. These changes made game shows more exciting and popular.

2023-08-26

Retirement - After 35 years of hosting The Price Is Right, Bob Barker retired from the show in 2007. He was replaced by comedian and actor Drew Carey.
Animal Rights Activism - For many years, Bob Barker has been a passionate advocate for animal rights. He has donated millions of dollars to animal rights organizations and even had a hand in the creation of the Los Angeles Zoo's Bob Barker Endangered Species Preserve.
TV Cameos - Since his retirement, Bob Barker has made several cameos on TV shows, including The Bold and the Beautiful, How I Met Your Mother, and The Bold Type.
Personal Life - Bob Barker has been married twice, first to Dorothy Jo Gideon, whom he divorced in 1981, and then to former Price Is Right model, Dian Parkinson, whom he divorced in 1993. He has also been in a long term relationship with his partner, Nancy Fleming.
Legacy - Bob Barker's legacy lives on in the form of the Bob Barker Endowment for the Study of Animal Rights, which he founded in 2002. He has also been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.