Bob Barker, the legendary American TV show personality from ‘The Price is Right,’ passed away at the age of 99 on August 26, 2023. He was the show’s host for 35 years and was a star who became the face of the show.
Publicist Roger Neal revealed the news of the death on Saturday.
“It is with immense grief that we inform you of the departure.”
Roger Neal
Not only did Bob champion his profession, but he also used his influential position to teach and remind fans about animal welfare and rights. His iconic ending phrase was, “Contribute to managing the pet population by ensuring your pets are spayed or neutered.”
Bob’s early life and marriage are once again making people curious. His true love, Dorothy Jo, passed away long before him, but he never stopped loving her.
Who Was Bob Barker Married to?
Bob Barker was married to Dorothy Jo Gideon. The couple met each other in 1945 when Bob was 15 and Dorothy was 14. They later got married in 1949.
Bob and Dorothy met at an Ella Fitzgerald concert when he was attending high school in Missouri. They began dating at a tender age and never let go of each other. Bob was in the US Navy Reserve in 1943 during World War II. He married Dorothy when he was on leave from the military.
Dorothy died in 1981 at 57, after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Bob recalled, “I was married at 21; Dorothy Jo was 20. She was with me all the time until she died. For some men, maybe a second or third marriage would work out fine. In my case, I had my marriage, and she was the love of my life.”
Did Bob Barker Have Children?
No, Bob Barker and his wife Dorothy Jo never had any children. According to Bob, they never had any time for children and never regretted their decision.
“We didn’t have time for children. I don’t regret it, not when so many of my friends are having so much trouble with their children.”
Bob Barker
The star also added that he has 13 ducks, which are quite a handful to care for, implying kids are out of the question.
After losing his wife in 1981 and retiring from ‘The Price is Right,’ Bob went through two strokes and several bad falls over the years but tried his best to remain active.
While many hoped Bob would make it to a full century, the man sadly passed away just four months shy of the milestone.
Comment on your appreciation for the phenomenal host below, and let’s hope he rests in peace.
