CBS will be honoring the late Bob Barker with a special hour-long tribute on August 31. The special, titled “The Price Is Right: A Tribute to Bob Barker,” will showcase various clips from Barker’s illustrious career as a TV host spanning over 50 years. From his introduction of the iconic Plinko game on The Price Is Right to his expert handling of on-stage mishaps, the special will highlight some of his most memorable moments. Serving as the host for the tribute will be Drew Carey, Barker’s longtime friend and successor on The Price Is Right.
Bob Barker, who gained pop culture icon status by fighting Adam Sandler in the film Happy Gilmore, sadly passed away on August 26 at the age of 99. This tribute aims to bring back cherished memories for generations of The Price Is Right fans, celebrating Barker’s sense of humor, his ability to connect with contestants, and his undeniable talent for making every moment count. Margot Wain, senior vice president of daytime programs at CBS, expresses her excitement for the special, acknowledging Barker’s uniqueness and his impact as a devoted animal activist and loyal friend.
The hour-long special will offer a glimpse into Barker’s debut as the host of The Price Is Right in 1972, his announcement of the show’s expansion from 30 minutes to an hour in 1975, and his final episode as host in 2007. Additionally, there will be heartwarming footage of exuberant contestants jumping for joy when called to play the game. Viewers can also look forward to a touching moment with Adam Sandler reading a poem titled “Ode to Bob Barker” from a 2007 special celebrating Barker’s remarkable 50-year career in television.
For those eager to catch the tribute, it is scheduled to premiere at 8 p.m. ET/PT on August 31 and will be available for streaming on Paramount+. As a bonus, there will be a repeat airing on Labor Day, September 4, during The Price Is Right’s usual daytime slot.
Bob Barker left an indelible mark on the world of television. His longevity as a host, his charismatic personality, and his commitment to various causes, especially animal activism, earned him the respect and admiration of many. With his infectious charm, Barker not only entertained audiences but also made a lasting impact on the contestants and viewers who tuned in each day.
Throughout his career, Barker became an embodiment of the game show genre, providing countless individuals with moments of joy, excitement, and even life-changing prizes. His presence on The Price Is Right made him a household name, and his catchphrases, such as “Come on down!” and “The price is right,” have become embedded in popular culture.
Aside from his television success, Barker dedicated himself to advocating for animal rights. His passion for animals led him to end each episode of The Price Is Right with a reminder to viewers to have their pets spayed or neutered. This simple but impactful message raised awareness about responsible pet ownership and became Barker’s trademark sign-off.
Bob Barker’s influence extended far beyond the television screen. His philanthropy and activism earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and a lifetime achievement award from the Game Show Network. He also received the Humane Society’s Genesis Award for his work in promoting animal welfare.
As we bid farewell to an extraordinary host and humanitarian, CBS’s tribute to Bob Barker serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy. His impact on the entertainment industry and his unwavering dedication to making a difference in the world will forever be cherished. The hour-long special provides an opportunity for fans to relive some of Barker’s most memorable moments and reflect on the profound impact he had on the game show genre and beyond.
Bob Barker will be remembered as an irreplaceable icon whose charm, wit, and compassion touched the lives of many. His contributions to television will continue to inspire future generations of hosts, while his advocacy for animals will leave a lasting imprint on society. The Price Is Right: A Tribute to Bob Barker ensures that his memory lives on, allowing us to celebrate his remarkable career and all the joy he brought into our lives.
