Bob Barker, long-time US TV game show host, dies at age 99

Bob Barker, the beloved host of the game show “The Price Is Right” and a dedicated animal rights activist, has passed away at the age of 99, according to his publicist. Barker, who hosted the show for 35 years, was known for his silver hair and won 19 Daytime Emmy awards. He also made a memorable appearance in the film “Happy Gilmore.” Barker died at his home in Hollywood Hills, California, of natural causes. He was a generous supporter of pro-animal causes and donated millions of dollars to organizations like the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. “The Price Is Right” became a cultural phenomenon during Barker’s tenure, with him hosting over 6,500 episodes. He was known for his good-natured humor and for giving away more than $300 million in prizes. Barker was a well-loved television personality for over 50 years and considered himself fortunate to have been invited into people’s homes. “The Price Is Right” holds the record for the longest-running game show in U.S. television history. Barker continued to advocate for animal rights well into his 90s and used his platform on the show to promote spaying and neutering pets. He also spoke out against the mistreatment of animals in various industries. Barker was a vegetarian since 1979 and stopped using hair dye because it was tested on animals. He even quit hosting beauty pageants when they refused to stop using fur coats. In the film “Happy Gilmore,” Barker played himself and engaged in a comedic fight scene with Adam Sandler’s character. Barker was sued for sexual harassment in 1994, but he maintained that the relationship was consensual, and the suit was eventually dropped. Born in 1923, Barker began his career in radio before transitioning to television. He hosted the popular quiz show “Truth or Consequences” before joining “The Price Is Right.” Barker remained unmarried after his wife’s death in 1981.