The Price Is Right: About the Hosts

The Price Is Right has had a relatively small but highly influential roster of hosts during its decades-long run. From the commanding charm of Bob Barker to the energetic humor of Drew Carey, the show’s hosts have done more than just call contestants to “Come on down!” — they’ve helped shape the identity of the show and steer it through multiple generations of viewers. Here’s a closer look at the men who’ve taken the microphone and left their mark on this iconic series.

Bill Cullen: The Original Visionary

Before Bob Barker ever stepped on stage, Bill Cullen was the original host of The Price Is Right when it debuted in 1956. That early version of the show aired first on NBC and then on ABC and had a very different structure from what fans are familiar with today. Contestants bid on items in multiple rounds, trying to get closest to the actual price without going over.

Cullen brought a calm professionalism to the show and was one of the most respected figures in early television. While his version ended in 1965, it laid the groundwork for the format that would later explode into a household staple in the 1970s.

Bob Barker: The Legendary Icon

Bob Barker is undeniably the most recognized and revered host in The Price Is Right history. Taking over the show when it was revamped and relaunched by CBS in 1972, Barker’s silky voice, signature microphone, and unmistakable silver hair became synonymous with daytime TV. He hosted the show for a record-breaking 35 years, retiring in 2007.

More than just a host, Barker was a cultural force. His daily presence in millions of homes helped make the show a cross-generational phenomenon. He was also known for his firm but gentle treatment of contestants, his well-timed humor, and his ability to build suspense. And of course, no mention of Barker is complete without acknowledging his decades-long advocacy for animal rights, punctuated by his iconic closing line: “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.”

Under Barker’s leadership, The Price Is Right grew to become the longest-running game show in television history.

Drew Carey: A Modern Revival

When Barker retired, many wondered who could possibly fill his shoes. The answer came in the form of comedian and actor Drew Carey, best known at the time for The Drew Carey Show and Whose Line Is It Anyway? Carey took over hosting duties in 2007, and after an initial period of adjustment, won over both producers and fans with his laid-back charm and contemporary vibe.

Carey has modernized many aspects of the show while respecting its traditions. He’s added a more casual energy, made the set more colorful and digital, and encouraged more engagement from contestants. In his tenure, Carey has hosted celebrity specials, themed episodes, and prime-time versions of the show. While Barker’s shoes were large, Carey has stepped into them gracefully and given the show a fresh identity.

Guest and Temporary Hosts

Though rare, there have been a few moments in the show's history where temporary or guest hosts appeared. For example, when Drew Carey was briefly unavailable in 2021, George Gray — the show’s announcer — stepped up to handle some of the stage duties alongside a rotating cast of models and production team members. These episodes highlighted the tight-knit nature of the show’s cast and crew.

Additionally, Bob Barker made a highly publicized guest return in 2013 to celebrate his 90th birthday. Fans were thrilled to see him reprise his iconic role, even if just for a day.

Announcers and Supporting Cast

While not hosts in the traditional sense, announcers like Johnny Olson, Rod Roddy, and more recently, George Gray have played a huge role in the show’s presentation. Their booming voices and trademark catchphrases — especially “Come on down!” — are an essential part of the show's rhythm and style.

The models, including longtime fan favorites like Janice Pennington and Manuela Arbelaez, have also become mini-celebrities in their own right, forming a core part of the extended hosting family.

Summary

The history of The Price Is Right is inextricably tied to its hosts, each of whom brought a unique energy to the stage. From Bill Cullen’s quiet command to Bob Barker’s legendary poise and Drew Carey’s fun-loving charisma, the show has always been anchored by personalities who respect the game and its fans. As the show continues into new decades, it remains a vibrant part of American pop culture — in no small part because of the people who’ve stood behind that signature skinny microphone.