• More
Back to PopWatch Home
EW Home

Can anyone replace Bob Barker?

Nov 1, 2006, 11:56 AM | by Michael Slezak

Categories: Morning Madness, Television

94433__bob_l I'm not sure I'm emotionally prepared to discuss Bob Barker's pending retirement from The Price Is Right. I can't tell you how many mornings of my elementary-school summer vacations I spent letting the now-silver-haired host teach me the value of comparison shopping, the meaning of the words "spayed and neutered," and the ability to remain calm in the face of overzealous affection. But, y'know, even though the dude is still foxy as he approaches 83 -- I've got Bob on right now in the background as I type this item, and he's rockin' his pinstripe suit and orchid tie better than most men half his age -- I can't blame him for wanting to call it a day in June 2007. That, of course, raises the inevitable question: Who can CBS find to replace him? I'm a little ambivalent about the subject, but if someone put "A NEW CAR!!!" on the line, I guess I'd throw my vote behind Dancing With the Stars runner-up John O'Hurley. How 'bout you, PopWatchers?


"Come On Down!" Fri, Mar 28, 2008 at 07:25 PM EST

http://comeondowndocumentary.blogspot.com/

RRains Tue, Jul 17, 2007 at 05:38 PM EST

CRAIG FERGUSON I hope will be the one to replace Bob Barker! He is so funny and I hope that he would want the job. Nobody likes Rosie, you know that! Give Craig a chance... I love Robin Williams very much BUT I really dont think I could watch that show every night, sorry. RRains

RRains Tue, Jul 17, 2007 at 05:28 PM EST

OMG CRAIG FERGUSON...!!!! PLEEEASE!!!
I see that others have voted the same way, I have been wanting to post about CRAIG FERGUSON for quite some time now.. sorry it took me so long

Fairygram Fri, Jun 8, 2007 at 09:27 PM EST

Puleeze... let me throw my favorite and
so far, I think unmentioned, in the ring: CBS Late Night & funny as all get-out (you have to be quick to get it)
the name... Craig Ferguson. What-cha think?

Cheryl Evans Fri, Jun 8, 2007 at 08:58 PM EST

My vote is for ROSIE ODONELL to replace Bob. Please consider this.

Holly Hanson Thu, Jun 7, 2007 at 07:01 PM EST

I will miss Bob so much. I don't think the show should go on w/out him, because it wouldn't be the same,but that is only my opinion. But I think that Roger Dobkowitz should be the host! I luv ya Roger!!!

Clinton Huebbe Thu, Jun 7, 2007 at 08:45 AM EST

Hey George Bush's time is almost up as president. How about George Bush!!!
lol

Lise Vezina Wed, Jun 6, 2007 at 10:39 AM EST

Richard Karn (Al from Home Improvement) He was great on Family Feud...he has the personality, and they would be crazy not to hire him for the show !!! Thanks Bob Barker for all the years of having you as a important part of our day & our Family....Happy Retirement !!! xoxoxox Lise

VIOLA Wed, Jun 6, 2007 at 06:40 AM EST

ROSIE AND ELLEN WOULD TURN IT DOUBLE ENTENDRE IN NO TIME. CERTAINLY HAS TO BE SOMEONE WHO CAN TALK A LOT.SOMEONE LIKE JOHN O'HURLEY, WHO IS VERY RESTRICTED TO A FEW SENTENCES ON FAMILY FEUD WOULD NOT BE PUSHING HIS OPINIONS AND COULD JUST PLAY "THE PRICE IS RIGHT" IT WOULD BE VERY ENJOYABLE.

Ashley Fri, May 18, 2007 at 08:16 AM EST

You rock bob. I love you like a dad. You rock my socks!! I miss You aRe the man!!!!

Peter Fri, May 18, 2007 at 08:14 AM EST

We love you bob. you better come back at some point!!!!!!! I already miss you!!!!

Danny Fri, May 18, 2007 at 08:12 AM EST

Bob Don't leave your the man!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Danny Fri, May 18, 2007 at 08:12 AM EST

Bob Don't leave your the man!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shimi Wed, Apr 4, 2007 at 03:55 PM EST

I THINK THE "HOFF" SHOULD DEFINATLEY BE THE NEXT HOST OF THE PRICE IS RIGHT... HE HAS NO STAGE FRIEGHT BECAUSE HE CAN SING!!!

geneel Wed, Jan 17, 2007 at 12:28 PM EST

I agree that someone young would be right... I vote for David Mendenhall (35)
He has an infectious smile, laugh, and just the right amount of smooze...
He isn't one of the current parade..
of game show hosts and would bring a fresh face and the same appeal to all ages...

Uh Sat, Dec 9, 2006 at 01:26 PM EST

There was a *successful* Price is Right before Bob Barker hosted it.

Sharon CArter Sun, Dec 3, 2006 at 07:00 PM EST

The most logical choice is the show's current announcer Rich Fields. He knows all the games, has his own built in TPIR fan base, is personable, comedic, and has full command of the audience in his warm up's. He has a real passion for the show and Barker himself loves him. He has spent the last 3 years as Barker's sidekick, and no one can beat that sort of training. CBS and Fremantle may miss the boat on this one, with that goof ball Dave Price. Please say it isn't so. Second choice, Todd Newton.

Bryce Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 09:12 PM EST

We will miss him. NOBODY can ever replace him!

t3hdow Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 01:43 PM EST

LOL @ the thought of Samuel L. Jackson hosting The Price is Right

Sean Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 12:26 PM EST

Supposedly Marc Summers has been put in place to become the new host. I live in Indianapolis where Summers is from and on a radio show he said that they were in discussions about it. He also talked about his OCD and how he does seminars about overcoming it so its not as bad as it use to be.

Noe Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 12:20 PM EST

I think if Bob retires that they need to retire the show as well. There is no one that can replace Bob. I for one can live without Plinko!

Anna Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 10:08 AM EST

Corky, MacKenzie is right. It is Marc Summers who has OCD. I remember seeing a story on it. Ray Combs was suffering from depression brought on by losing his Family Feud job, his pending divorce, money lost in a bad business deal and a car accident that left him badly injured.

I'm not sure that anyone should replace Bob Barker. Not only is it weird to think of that show going on without him but it's not a good time for game shows. Except for Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune most shows not on GSN, aren't hanging around for more than a couple of years. It's a tall order to try to find someone to take his place.

Jen O. Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 09:32 AM EST

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra9rFfXFkK8

It's not really funny until about 3 minutes in.

Justin Thu, Nov 2, 2006 at 01:26 AM EST

I was thinking Todd Newton, but Marc Summers would be good too.

Maeve Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 08:37 PM EST

I can't take this. I love Bob. I cried. I'll admit it. At least he's still alive. I love Bob.

Vivi Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 07:54 PM EST

No, Bob. No.

No one, and I mean no ONE, can replace him.

"Price is Right" would never be the same.

*cries*

Megan Midgette Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 07:45 PM EST

pssh no!. duh. :)

cj Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 06:31 PM EST

NO

Josh Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 05:44 PM EST

Mo'nique!!!!!

mon Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 04:19 PM EST

OCD or not, Marc Summers was the first person who came to my head.

JillyRo Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 04:18 PM EST

I'm SO sad about Bob Barker leaving TPIR. He was a HUGE part of my childhood (I too watched him when I was home sick from elementary...I mean, who didn't?!!!). And my retired parents still watch him daily, he's an daytime icon.

Bob is irreplaceable, sniff, sniff.

The Price is WRONG without Bob!!!


James Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 04:10 PM EST

It was Art Flemming, not Linkletter on Jeopardy...easy mistake to make.

I think Paul Rubins would work (yes, I said Pee Week Herman).

Daniel Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 04:08 PM EST

Yes! Bob Saget!

t-storm Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 04:02 PM EST

I agree with those who say Tom Bergeron from AFV and DWTS.

Laura Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:54 PM EST

As long as it's NOT Ryan Seacrest, I don't care.... I really don't get his popularity in the "new Hollywood taking over for old Hollywood" world.

Laurie Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:52 PM EST

I can't imagine a world w/o Plinko. I would watch Price every summer as a kid and that and the Mountainclimber games were the best (and cheesiest.) Although now that I am an adult I really only get to see it either on Xmas vacation at my folks or when I am sick, so I would only want to save it for another generation of Plinko lovers.

dap Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:46 PM EST

Stoney, I second your idea for Samuel L. Jackson..."Will you PLEASE spin that motherf***in' wheel!" heh heh

Mara Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:41 PM EST

There is a version in Vegas at Bally's with Todd Newton as host. Roger Lodge has filled in for him occassionaly.

What about Chuck Woolery?

Mike in Moncton Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:38 PM EST

Roger Lodge from "Blind Date".

pat Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:36 PM EST

I'd prefer someone unknown and under 40. (and I am 67) Let's get some young guy on the show.

Corky St. Clair Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:35 PM EST

MacKenzie... are you sure it's Marc Summers who has OCD? I think you're confusing him with Family Fued's Ray Combs, who committed suicide over his disorder.

Nathan Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:22 PM EST

Bob is irreplaceable, but I'm glad he's retiring. He can't hear very well anymore and kept repeating himself over and over again.

Tyler D Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:17 PM EST

You can't replace a master-pimp like Bob Barker. He's a mack! He lays his game down quite flat.

Stephanie Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:16 PM EST

Oh that's right. A couple of months ago, Atlantic City has the Price is Right tour, and Summers who went on to do the food documentary Unwrapped on The Food Channel was the host. I am sure that if he does have OCD there are ways around it...just as long as he does not squirt that anit-bacterial gel into everyones hand. Did anyone read that article on Dick Cheney and the gel?

And E.P., you are right Alex was not the first person to host Jeopardy. Art Linklatter was. You know, the guy who used to do the commercials for the Craftmatic Adjustible Bed.

Jim Lange could also work but I am not sure that dragging these greats out of retirement would help any?
Riki Lake was a good M.C. eventhough her Game Show Marathon was not a hit.

h3ff Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 03:08 PM EST

My vote goes to Conan O'Brien

Rahul Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:59 PM EST

Ok MacKenzie, I'm with you completely -get Bob Saget.

Rahul Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:58 PM EST

I can't think of a replacement that would make the contestants feel as good as Bob makes them feel. Who else could incite both women and men of all ages to be compelled to embrace the host afer being called up on stage?

MacKenzie Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:54 PM EST

I really can't believe how many people are suggesting Marc Summers. Doesn't everyone know about his flaming OCD? You know he wouldn't be able to deal with all those cheek kisses and hugs.

I'd like to see Bob Saget.

Kristin Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:38 PM EST

In Atlantic City, they have a version of the game show that you can go to. Marc Summers was the host and was perfectly fine. It wouldn't surprise me if this casino version was his "training"

Tammy Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:36 PM EST

Howie Mandel! I don't know if he can handle people hugging and touching him, but he would be awesome! If he was the host, I would probably tivo TPIR. I love Howie.

t3hdow Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:34 PM EST

I'm sorry, but Bob Barker is irreplaceable. Yes, others can fill in his former spot, but as a person and host, no one can truly replace Bob Barker. The Price is Right isn't like Family Feud that replaces hosts like underwear. I'm sorry, but part of its timeless appeal is Barker's prescence and not having him on the show almost takes away its soul.

Oddly enough, when I watched part of The Price is Right this morning (before leaving for class), I pondered to myself, "This show will never be the same without Barker." Who knew I'd be reading this today?

Ed Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:31 PM EST

I like the idea of having a woman as the host, but her name has to begin with an Sara's Studs; or how about H for Helen's Hunks? Whatever the choice maybe, the guys should be bare chested and ripped!

Chris Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:29 PM EST

They should be someone young and relatively unknown so CBS can quickly ax them if it doesn't work out. In other words, me.

Ep Sato Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:27 PM EST

I forgot JD Roth! Man was he awful! I mean, he had energy, but Fun House always felt to me like a half assed double dare. Marc Summers does have the charisma and sense of humor (his pre-Nickelodeon stand up was always pretty funny and kinda dirty too), but I don't know if he could pull off the show with it's current set. Maybe if they gave the entire show a facelift?

While Barker's not replacable, a new guy could change the show a bit around and keep it going. After all, Trebek wasn't the first host of Jeopardy (I think), and Jon Stewart wasn't the first guy to host the Daily show (okay, it's not a gameshow). Both fellas were able to add their own flair to their shows by matching the series to the hosts talents. I guess they could do that for Price is Right...

T.L. Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:25 PM EST

One of my favorite memories from childhood is watching Price is Right with my grandma when I went to visit her in the summers. I'm 38 now, and she's been deceased since 1999. I've always taken comfort in the fact that Bob's still on the air -- it makes me feel a sense of continuity with the past. Who would've thought I would ever feel pangs of loss from the retirement of a game show host....

matt Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:18 PM EST

Bob was great, and it would be hard to replace him. I think Marc Summers would be a pretty good fit though

Ron Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:09 PM EST

Veteran game show host Bob Eubanks (Newlywed Game). Nuf,Said!

jake Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:07 PM EST

Two hosts: Andy Dick and Janice Dickinson

dma69 Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 02:03 PM EST

As long as it's not Danny Bonaduce. Have you seen STARFACE? He still as annoying as ever.

Josh Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:53 PM EST

I concur about Marc Summers.

I think you need someone who can be enthusiastic and sincere but not too-in-your-face. Of celebs, somebody maybe like Joey Lawrence??? (I know, not even close to the Parker legacy, but replacing a legend is tough)

ceejay Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:52 PM EST

People, get over it already! EVERYONE is replaceable, including Bob Barker. His time is definitely up, as a matter of fact, he should have left long ago; I agree that he should be replaced by John O'Hurley. I bet that all it will take for him to accept is to make him a good offer; I doubt that he will say no.

Stephanie Travitsky Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:46 PM EST

Wait, how about Monty Hall. I am sure that he could still kick it or the guy from Card Sharks, he was cool.

Josh Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:45 PM EST

Either Weird Al Yankovic or cancel the show. Then again I can't imagine a world without Plinko. The tragedy!

Stephanie Travitsky Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:43 PM EST

I think that Marc Summers (Double Dare) is possibly the closest that you can get to Bob Barker. O'Hurley replaced the bearded guy from Home Improvement, and yes Anderson is annoying as is J.D. Roth. Fun House was cool, but Roths other shows sucked.

Eskimo Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:41 PM EST

I'm sure CBS will find someone to fill Bob's post, but REPLACE him? It *can't* be done. 50 years in television and 35 amazing years on TPIR makes the man an institution. I think the show should retire with Bob. But if the show must go on it should be with someone who will appeal to the core audience--meaning a man over 40 with more than a little charisma. Not John O'Hurley--his work on Family Feud doesn't leave me with a good impression. If he didn't have so much baggage I'd almost suggest Jerry Springer.

Corky St. Clair Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:36 PM EST

Andy Dick

Jen Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:32 PM EST

My suggestion is Don Francisco (from Univision's Sabado Gigante). He's very charismatic and entertaining.

Ep Sato Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:22 PM EST

I'm sorry, but there is no replacement for everyone's favorite animal rights supporting kendo practicing host!

Bob Barker IS the Price is Right. I love that show and can pretty much guess the price of most appliances (even the ones I don't own) thanks to years of dedicated viewing (reference to another post of mine: many of those college days were spent rerouting my class schedule to allow me to watch Price is Right).

Unlike most shows, if they choose to replace Bob, it's got to be with some sort of superstar who's willing to give it all up for this new identity. But please, no Louey Anderson!

Marc Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:10 PM EST

We can all agree that Bob WAS The Price is Right... No one could even dream of being like him.

However, Rosie O'Donnell or Ellen Degeneres could keep the show interesting.

roel Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:07 PM EST

the show would simply not be the same without him. (wasn't there a night-time spinoff that didn't fare so well?)
the man IS 'the price is right'. he's irreplaceable. dare i say let the show go altogether...

bub Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:05 PM EST

I think maybe it should be somebody relatively unknown--someone who could MAKE their identity on TPIR instead of BRING their identity to TPIR. I think it's impossible to "replace" Bob Barker--whoever it is should bring their own style to the role, like Johnny Depp did with Willy Wonka.

Timmbo Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 01:01 PM EST

Back in the mid 90s I satisfied my goal of being in the studio audience with Bob Barker as host. For me, it just wouldn't have been the same without him. Who'd of known he'd still be doing the show 10 years later?

But surely the excitement of TPIR can be passed on to another qualified host with similar charms and humor -- supported by those gesticulating busty women of course. It will take some getting used to, still TPIR must, and will, go on.

Julie Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:56 PM EST

Paula Poundstone.

Paul U. Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:44 PM EST

Cancel the show...they shouldn't even try to replace him!

stoney Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:35 PM EST

I ache inside just a little bit...

Who will lead the yodel as the little man climbs towards his doom?

Who will tell me where to place my PLINKO chip?

Who will help me spin the wheel and give shout-outs at the same time??

Oh Bob...I'll miss you! But I'll make sure they keep Roseanne far, far away from your stage.

I would much rather they close up production and keep the occasional prime time The Price is Right but networks are greedy little cash machines and the show probably will go on.

Hmmm...the host needs to be a multi-tasker who is part carnival barker, part ringmaster and easy on the eyes while reading a teleprompter. Donnie Osmond and Tony Danza are too cheezy. Ditto for Arsenio Hall. Chuck Woolery is busy on Lingo (and he's great!).

Samuel L Jackson!!!!

OK, seriously, Ellen Degeneres would be a cool host.

Elizabeth Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:35 PM EST

Jeff Probst!

Matt Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:33 PM EST

I'd be fine with O'Hurley or Bergeron. Heck I'd be fine with Howie Mandel!

As long as it is NOT JEFF PROBST
I can't stand him and I can't stand Survivor.

Can anyone think of past CBS/general game show personalities who arent crippled, too old, or dead?

jeremiah Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:31 PM EST

Tom Berjeron all the way!

Josh Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:29 PM EST

I agree with Eric... no O'Hurley, he's busy with Feud and better as a dancer when he doesn't speak as much :O

There's no way it would happen, but it would be funny if Adam Sandler at least guest hosted a week. "The price is right, beyotch!"

But on a more serious note... hmm, this is tough. Give me a while...

Vicky Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:27 PM EST

My friend went as Bob Barker for Halloween this year. One of the best costumes of the night.

Frankie Kaufman Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:24 PM EST

I think you need someone with game show experience. Wink Martindale comes to mind, but he's 73. I don't think they would go with someone too young and it doesn't really make sense to have a "comedian" host it. Maybe Chuck Woolery?

whatsonpop Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:20 PM EST

Roseanne would be awesome!!! She's got wit and she would make the show her own!

Amber Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:20 PM EST

I really love Tom Bergeron but he's busy with DWTS and AFV.

Ben Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:19 PM EST

Marc Summers to me would be the best

Amber Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:19 PM EST

I really love Tom Bergeron but he's busy with DWTS and AFV.

Sally Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:17 PM EST

John O'hurley...but no one can replace Bob. on second thought, how about a woman as a replacement? Roseanne Barr?

Larry Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:13 PM EST

As long as Regis Philbin isn't under consideration...

Let's be honest. No one can replace Bob Barker. I think, much like when Jay Leno took over "The Tonight Show," the producers will probably need to retool the show a bit to fit the new host.

Dave Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:13 PM EST

No one can replace Bob Barker, but I think John O'Hurley would be great. I second Brandon K's suggestion that the Beauties should be changed to hot, shirtless guys. Now THAT would be fun!

brandonk Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:07 PM EST

I'd like a woman to host, and then the Beauties could be scantily clad guys! Oh yeah...

Eric Wed, Nov 1, 2006 at 12:03 PM EST

John O'Hurley is not good. Have you seen Family Feud?


advertisement

Add Your Comments

The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject — or we may delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk (*) indicates a required field.



  • 1000 characters remaining
    • When you click on the "Post Comment" button above to submit your comments, you are indicating your acceptance of and are agreeing to the Terms of Service. You can also read our Privacy Policy.
Latest Comments
Top Categories

All Categories

Blog Roll
Top Authors
Recent Posts
PopWatch Archive
July 2009
S M T W T F S
      1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31  

Complete Archive