The entertainment industry is in a somber state following the recent demise of the esteemed Bob Barker, who passed away at the age of 99.
The iconic television host’s death was officially confirmed recently, with TMZ revealing that he succumbed to natural causes.
Contrary to the customary practices observed after the passing of prominent figures, reports indicate that Barker will not have a traditional funeral or any form of memorial service.
Born in 1923, Barker relocated to California in 1950 to pursue a career in broadcasting. Over the years, he became the face of various game shows and took the helm at the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants from 1967 to 1987.
In 1982, Barker experienced a career-defining moment with the revival of “The Price is Right”, marking his triumphant return to television after its predecessor’s hiatus since 1963. The show became a massive success, catapulting Barker to stardom in the United States.
Remaining at the helm until 2007, Barker held the distinguished position of hosting one of the longest-running game shows in television history. Following his departure, the beloved TV personality opted for a more private life but did make occasional returns before officially retiring in 2015.
Unsurprisingly, news of Barker’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans worldwide.
In a statement released to Entertainment Tonight, Barker’s representative, Roger Neal, revealed that the late host had expressly requested not to have a traditional funeral or memorial service. Instead, Barker will find his final resting place beside his late wife, Dorothy Jo Gideon, at Forest Lawn Memorial Cemetery in the Hollywood Hills. The couple, who fell in love during high school, enjoyed 35 years of marriage before Dorothy Jo’s passing from lung cancer in 1981.
Recalling the fond memories, Barker once shared: “She was sitting on the veranda at the hotel where I worked. There was a deck of cards there. She reached into the deck and pulled out the 10 of spades and she said: ‘Here, this will be your luck’. And I’ve had this for 60 years, and on the other side is Dorothy Jo”.