How Long Did Bob Barker Host 'The Price Is Right'?

Dr. Keegan Satterfield III 21 Jun 2025

How long was Bob Barker on The Price is Right? Bob Barker was the host of the popular game show The Price is Right for 35 seasons, from 1972 to 2007.

The Price is Right is a television game show in which contestants bid on the prices of merchandise and win cash and prizes. The show has been on the air since 1956 and is one of the most popular game shows in the world.

Barker was born in 1923 and began his career in television in the 1950s. He hosted The Price is Right from 1972 to 2007 and became known for his catchphrases, such as "Come on down!" and "The price is right!" Barker was also known for his advocacy for animal rights and his work with the animal welfare organization PETA.

Bob Barker retired from The Price is Right in 2007 and was replaced by Drew Carey. Barker died in 2020 at the age of 99.

Name	Lifespan	Occupation
Bob Barker	1923-2020	Television host, animal rights activist

Bob Barker was a beloved television personality and game show host. He was known for his humor, wit, and kindness. Barker's legacy will continue to live on through his work with The Price is Right and his advocacy for animal rights.

How Long Was Bob Barker on Price is Right

Bob Barker's tenure on the popular game show "The Price is Right" spanned over three decades, leaving a lasting impact on the show and its viewers. Here are eight key aspects that highlight the significance of his time on the show:

35 Seasons: Barker hosted the show for an impressive 35 seasons, from 1972 to 2007.
Iconic Phrases: He became known for his signature catchphrases, such as "Come on down!" and "The price is right!"
Animal Advocacy: Barker was a passionate advocate for animal rights, often using his platform to promote PETA.
Game Show Legacy: He is widely considered one of the greatest game show hosts of all time.
Retirement: Barker retired from the show in 2007 at the age of 83.
Popularity: "The Price is Right" was one of the most popular game shows during Barker's time.
Drew Carey: Drew Carey succeeded Barker as the host of the show in 2007.
Cultural Impact: Barker's presence on the show shaped popular culture and influenced generations of viewers.

Bob Barker's 35-year run on "The Price is Right" not only made him a household name but also cemented his status as a television icon. His dedication to the show, his passion for animal rights, and his unique hosting style left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and continue to inspire viewers to this day.

1. 35 Seasons

The duration of Bob Barker's time on "The Price is Right" is a crucial component in understanding the impact of his tenure on the show and its viewers. His 35-season run, spanning from 1972 to 2007, represents an extraordinary commitment to a single program, showcasing his dedication to entertaining audiences and his passion for the game show format.

The longevity of Barker's presence on the show played a significant role in shaping its legacy. His consistent hosting style, signature catchphrases, and unwavering enthusiasm created a sense of familiarity and comfort for viewers, making "The Price is Right" a beloved staple in American households. Barker's ability to connect with contestants and viewers alike, regardless of their background or age, contributed to the show's enduring popularity and cross-generational appeal.

Moreover, Barker's 35 seasons on "The Price is Right" allowed him to witness and participate in the evolution of the game show genre. During his tenure, the show underwent various format changes, set redesigns, and contestant additions, yet Barker remained a constant and reassuring presence, guiding viewers through these transitions with his signature wit and charm.

In summary, Bob Barker's 35 seasons on "The Price is Right" were instrumental in establishing the show as a cultural phenomenon and solidifying his status as one of the most iconic game show hosts of all time. His dedication, passion, and ability to connect with audiences left an indelible mark on the show and continue to influence the game show landscape to this day.

2. Iconic Phrases

The iconic phrases uttered by Bob Barker during his tenure on "The Price is Right" are inextricably linked to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of the show. These catchphrases transcended the realm of game show lingo, becoming ingrained in the collective consciousness of American pop culture.

The phrase "Come on down!" became synonymous with the start of each game, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. It invited contestants to step into the spotlight and embrace the chance to win life-changing prizes. Barker's enthusiastic delivery of this phrase instilled a sense of urgency and excitement, setting the tone for the rest of the show.

Equally memorable was Barker's declaration of "The price is right!" This phrase marked the culmination of each bidding round, revealing whether the contestant had successfully guessed the correct price of the showcased item. His emphatic delivery of this phrase added a dramatic flair to the game, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The longevity of Bob Barker's time on "The Price is Right" allowed these phrases to become deeply ingrained in the minds of viewers. Over the course of 35 seasons, Barker uttered these catchphrases countless times, solidifying their place in television history. Their enduring popularity is a testament to Barker's charisma, the show's enduring appeal, and the power of language to create lasting memories.

In summary, the iconic phrases associated with Bob Barker are not merely catchphrases but cultural touchstones that have shaped the legacy of "The Price is Right." They represent the excitement, anticipation, and joy that have made the show a beloved favorite for generations.

3. Animal Advocacy

Bob Barker's dedication to animal rights was an integral part of his tenure on "The Price is Right" and played a significant role in shaping his legacy as a beloved television personality and cultural icon.

Throughout his 35 seasons on the show, Barker consistently used his platform to raise awareness about animal welfare issues and encourage viewers to adopt animals from shelters rather than buying them from pet stores. He frequently featured segments on the show dedicated to promoting animal rights and highlighting the work of animal welfare organizations, particularly PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).

Barker's advocacy for animal rights extended beyond his television appearances. He was an active supporter of PETA and other animal welfare groups, lending his voice and resources to their campaigns against animal cruelty, fur farming, and factory farming practices. His dedication to the cause earned him widespread recognition and respect within the animal rights community.

The combination of Barker's long-standing presence on "The Price is Right" and his unwavering commitment to animal advocacy created a powerful platform for promoting animal rights and influencing public opinion. His ability to connect with viewers on a personal level, coupled with his genuine passion for animal welfare, made his advocacy efforts particularly effective.

In summary, Bob Barker's animal advocacy was an inseparable component of his time on "The Price is Right." His dedication to the cause, combined with the show's immense popularity, created a unique opportunity to raise awareness about animal rights and inspire viewers to make a positive impact on the lives of animals.

4. Game Show Legacy

The connection between Bob Barker's game show legacy and the duration of his tenure on "The Price is Right" is multifaceted and mutually reinforcing. Barker's remarkable 35-season run on the show played a pivotal role in establishing his status as one of the greatest game show hosts of all time, while his exceptional hosting skills and dedication to the craft solidified the show's enduring popularity and cultural significance.

Barker's longevity on "The Price is Right" provided him with an unparalleled opportunity to showcase his unique talents and forge a deep connection with viewers. Over the course of 35 seasons, he developed a signature hosting style that was both engaging and authoritative, creating a welcoming and exciting atmosphere for contestants and viewers alike. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, combined with his genuine enthusiasm for the game, made him a beloved figure in American households.

The combination of Barker's charisma, professionalism, and commitment to the show's success contributed significantly to its enduring legacy. Under his guidance, "The Price is Right" became one of the most popular and recognizable game shows in television history, attracting a loyal following that spanned generations. Barker's hosting skills and dedication to the craft set a high standard for game show hosts, influencing and inspiring countless others in the industry.

In summary, Bob Barker's game show legacy is inextricably linked to his long tenure on "The Price is Right." His exceptional hosting skills, combined with his dedication to the show and its viewers, played a crucial role in establishing his status as one of the greatest game show hosts of all time. The duration of his tenure provided him with the platform and opportunity to showcase his unique talents, connect with audiences, and leave a lasting impact on the game show landscape.

5. Retirement

Bob Barker's retirement from "The Price is Right" in 2007 at the age of 83 marked the end of an era for the beloved game show. His departure, after an extraordinary 35-season run, had a profound impact on the show's trajectory and the legacy of Barker himself.

Barker's retirement was a significant event for several reasons. Firstly, his longevity on the show had made him synonymous with "The Price is Right." His retirement signaled a changing of the guard and created a sense of nostalgia among viewers who had grown accustomed to his presence. Secondly, Barker's decision to retire at the age of 83 highlighted the physical and mental demands of hosting a daily game show, which requires.

The retirement of Bob Barker also presented an opportunity for the show to refresh its format and appeal to a new generation of viewers. Barker's replacement, Drew Carey, brought his own unique style and energy to the show, while maintaining the core elements that had made it a success. The transition was successful, ensuring the show's continued popularity and relevance.

In summary, Bob Barker's retirement from "The Price is Right" was a significant milestone that marked the end of an era for the show. His departure, while marking a changing of the guard, also provided an opportunity for the show to evolve and continue entertaining audiences for years to come.

6. Popularity

The immense popularity of "The Price is Right" during Bob Barker's tenure was a significant factor contributing to the longevity of his hosting career on the show. The show's high ratings and widespread appeal created a stable platform for Barker to showcase his talents and connect with a vast audience.

The popularity of "The Price is Right" can be attributed to several elements. The game's simple yet engaging format, featuring contestants bidding on prizes based on their estimated retail prices, made it accessible and enjoyable for viewers of all ages and backgrounds. Barker's charismatic hosting style, coupled with his genuine enthusiasm for the game, further enhanced the show's appeal.

The show's popularity had a mutually reinforcing relationship with Barker's tenure. As the show's popularity grew, so did Barker's fame and recognition. His association with the show became synonymous with the game show genre itself, and his presence on the show for such an extended period solidified his status as one of the most beloved and iconic game show hosts of all time.In summary, the popularity of "The Price is Right" during Bob Barker's time was a crucial element in his long and successful tenure on the show. The show's high ratings and widespread appeal provided a stable platform for Barker to showcase his talents, while his presence on the show further enhanced its popularity.

7. Drew Carey

The transition from Bob Barker to Drew Carey as the host of "The Price is Right" in 2007 marked a significant turning point in the show's history. Barker's retirement after 35 seasons left a void that needed to be filled by a capable and charismatic host. The selection of Drew Carey, a renowned comedian and game show enthusiast, proved to be a strategic move that ensured the show's continued success.

Carey brought his own unique style and energy to the show, while respecting the legacy established by Barker. He maintained the core elements that had made "The Price is Right" a beloved classic, such as the iconic Showcase Showdown and the participation of enthusiastic contestants. At the same time, Carey introduced subtle changes, such as updating the show's set and introducing new games and segments. These changes helped to keep the show fresh and appealing to a new generation of viewers.

The importance of Drew Carey's role as Barker's successor cannot be overstated. His ability to seamlessly transition into the role and maintain the show's high ratings is a testament to his talent and dedication. Carey's tenure as host has ensured the longevity of "The Price is Right," proving that the show can continue to thrive even after the departure of its long-time host.

In summary, the connection between "Drew Carey: Drew Carey succeeded Barker as the host of the show in 2007." and "how long was bob barker on price is right" lies in the successful transition of hosting duties and the continuation of the show's popularity. Carey's ability to maintain the show's core elements while introducing subtle changes has ensured that "The Price is Right" remains a beloved classic.

8. Cultural Impact

Bob Barker's extended presence on "The Price is Right" had a profound cultural impact, shaping popular culture and influencing generations of viewers. His longevity on the show allowed him to become a household name and a beloved figure in American society.

Ubiquity and Familiarity: Barker's decades-long tenure on the show made him a ubiquitous figure in American households. His presence on television screens day after day ingrained him in the collective consciousness of the nation, making him instantly recognizable and familiar to people of all ages.
Catchphrases and Cultural Lexicon: Barker's signature catchphrases, such as "Come on down!" and "The price is right!", became deeply ingrained in American popular culture. These phrases transcended the boundaries of the game show genre and entered the everyday lexicon, often used in humorous or celebratory contexts.
Influence on Aspiring Performers: Barker's exceptional hosting skills and longevity on "The Price is Right" inspired generations of aspiring performers and game show hosts. His ability to connect with contestants and viewers, as well as his professionalism and dedication to the craft, set a high standard for those who followed in his footsteps.
Positive Role Model: Barker's advocacy for animal rights and his genuine care for the well-being of contestants and viewers made him a positive role model for many. His use of the show's platform to raise awareness about important social issues demonstrated his commitment to making a difference beyond the realm of entertainment.

In conclusion, Bob Barker's presence on "The Price is Right" for an extended period significantly influenced popular culture, leaving a lasting impact on American society. His ubiquity, catchphrases, influence on aspiring performers, and positive role modeling continue to shape the cultural landscape even today.

FAQs on Bob Barker's Tenure on "The Price is Right"

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding Bob Barker's long-standing presence on the popular game show "The Price is Right."

Question 1: How many seasons did Bob Barker host "The Price is Right"?

Bob Barker hosted "The Price is Right" for an impressive 35 seasons, spanning from 1972 to 2007.

Question 2: What were some of Barker's signature catchphrases?

Barker's iconic catchphrases included "Come on down!", "The price is right!", and "Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered."

Question 3: Was Barker involved in any philanthropic or advocacy work?

Yes, Barker was a passionate advocate for animal rights. He frequently used his platform on "The Price is Right" to promote pet adoption and responsible pet ownership.

Question 4: Who succeeded Barker as the host of "The Price is Right"?

Drew Carey took over as the host of "The Price is Right" following Barker's retirement in 2007.

Question 5: What impact did Barker's longevity on the show have on popular culture?

Barker's long tenure on "The Price is Right" made him a household name and a beloved cultural figure. His catchphrases and signature hosting style left an enduring mark on American popular culture.

In summary, Bob Barker's 35-season run on "The Price is Right" was marked by iconic catchphrases, animal advocacy, and a lasting impact on popular culture.

Transition to the next article section...

Conclusion

Bob Barker's remarkable 35-season tenure on "The Price is Right" stands as a testament to his exceptional hosting skills, dedication to animal rights, and enduring impact on popular culture. His iconic catchphrases, warm personality, and unwavering commitment to the show left an indelible mark on generations of viewers.

Barker's legacy extends beyond the realm of game shows. His passionate advocacy for animal welfare raised awareness about responsible pet ownership and inspired countless individuals to adopt animals from shelters. His presence on "The Price is Right" provided a unique platform to promote such an important cause, demonstrating the power of entertainment to make a positive difference in the world.

The enduring popularity of "The Price is Right" under Barker's leadership speaks to his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. His genuine enthusiasm for the game and his care for the contestants created a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere that kept viewers engaged and coming back for more.

As we reflect on Bob Barker's extraordinary career, we recognize his significant contributions to the world of television and beyond. His legacy as one of the greatest game show hosts of all time is secure, and his impact on popular culture and animal welfare will continue to be felt for years to come.

Bob Barker, longtime US TV game show host, dies at age 99

Bob Barker Fast Facts CNN

Bob Barker

RealTime Reports