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“If You Stayed Home Sick From School…”: Dana White Pays Tribute to Bob Barker Following the ‘The Price Is Right’ Host’s Passing Away

Published 08/26/2023, 11:49 PM EDT

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In a world where the spotlight often fades quickly, Robert William ‘Bob’ Barker’s radiance endured for almost a century. As the cherished host of ‘The Price Is Right,’ he captivated millions across multiple generations. However, as he approached his 100th year on the calendar, the ultimate curtain fell on this iconic entertainer.

Dana White paid tribute to the evergreen host on his Instagram story. He expressed his sadness with a cryptic message.

Dana White pays tribute to the legendary host Bob Baker

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Dana White took to social media to pay tribute to the passing of the legendary ‘The Price is Right’ host, Bob Barker. He added, “In the 80s, if you stayed home sick from school,” on his Instagram story alongside the news of Bob Barker’s demise. This story and those words signify the significance of Bob Barker as a host, to the extent that individuals would even skip school to watch him.

Roger Neal, Barker’s representative, has officially confirmed the news; however, the specific cause of death remains undisclosed. Barker charismatically hosted the renowned CBS game show for over three decades. On the show, contestants placed bids on a variety of items, all competing for the grand prize enthusiastically announced by exuberant presenters: “A BRAND NEW CAR!

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Originally running for nine years in the ’50s and ’60s with Bill Cullen, the show made a triumphant return in 1972. Barker took over the helm, a role he held for 35 years. In 2007, he passed the microphone to comedian Drew Carey.

‘The Price is Right’: Barker’s enduring legacy and memorable moments

Born on December 12, 1923, in Darrington, Washington, Robert William Barker’s early life was marked by challenges. His father, Byron, a power line foreman, passed away in 1929 due to injuries sustained from a fall years earlier. His mother, Matilda (Tarleton) Barker, found work as a teacher in Mission, South Dakota, on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. At the age of 13, Barker’s life took a turn when his mother married Louis Valandra, a tire salesman, and they relocated to Springfield, Missouri.

Despite securing a basketball scholarship at Drury College, Barker enlisted as a Naval Aviation cadet when World War II erupted. Although the war ended before he saw combat, Barker returned to complete his education, earning an economics degree with top honors in 1947 from Drury.

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Even before finishing his degree, Barker embarked on his radio career at KTTS in Springfield, juggling roles as a disc jockey, news writer, sportscaster, and producer. His journey continued at WWPG in Palm Beach, Florida, and KWIK in Burbank, California, showcasing his versatile skills. In 1945, Barker married his high school love, Dorothy Jo Gideon, a partnership that lasted until her passing in 1981. Despite the loss, Barker never remarried, preserving their memory.

Barker began as “The Price is Right” host on September 4, 1972, alongside “Truth or Consequences.” He’s linked to the show’s “Come on down!” catchphrase, though not its origin, and charmed viewers with his friendly style. Barker skillfully handled the excited contestants. In 1987, he embraced his natural hair color, earning a standing ovation from the audience and strengthening his bond with fans.

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Bob Barker’s legacy as the beloved host of ‘The Price Is Right’ spans generations, leaving an indelible mark on television history. Dana White’s tribute on Instagram highlights the profound impact Barker had on people’s lives.

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Written by:

Suryakant Das

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Suryakant Das is a passionate fan of UFC, mixed martial arts, and bodybuilding. Alongside his passion for sports activities, he is training to be a chartered accountant and has previously worked as a content lead in varied organizations. Suryakant's writing reveals a unique perspective on the world of MMA, enriched by his hunger to consume the latest happenings in the sport.
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Edited by:

Kratika Vajpayee