The Price Is Right: Trivia About the Show

The Price Is Right isn't just a game show — it's an American institution. With its infectious energy, iconic games, and unforgettable catchphrases, it has entertained millions for decades. But even superfans may not know all the quirky, historic, and surprising facts that have made this show such a cultural landmark. Here’s a collection of fascinating trivia that offers a deeper look behind the curtain of this legendary program.

A Legacy Older Than You Might Think

Most people associate The Price Is Right with its 1972 reboot hosted by Bob Barker, but the show actually dates back to 1956. The original version was hosted by Bill Cullen and aired on NBC, later transitioning to ABC. While that version was more subdued and focused on bidding wars over single items, it laid the groundwork for the interactive, audience-driven format that would explode in popularity decades later.

More Than 9,000 Episodes

As of the 2020s, The Price Is Right has surpassed 9,000 episodes, making it the longest-running game show in television history. It has outpaced every other daytime game show in terms of sheer volume and viewer loyalty. This longevity is due in large part to the show’s ability to evolve with the times while keeping its core format intact.

The Iconic Theme Song Has a Name

The show’s upbeat, carnival-style theme music is instantly recognizable — but few fans know that the original theme is titled “Walking” by Robert Israel. Over the years, the show has updated its musical arrangements, but the spirit of the original melody still anchors every episode.

Bob Barker's Animal Advocacy

For decades, host Bob Barker ended each episode with his now-famous plea: “Help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered.” This wasn’t just a tagline — it was part of his personal mission. Barker donated millions of dollars to animal rights organizations and even stepped away from hosting the Miss USA pageant due to its use of fur.

His dedication to animal welfare earned him multiple awards and helped raise awareness nationwide. Even after his retirement, current host Drew Carey often continues the tradition.

The First $1 Million Win

Despite its reputation for generous prizes, The Price Is Right didn’t give away a million-dollar prize until 2008. The milestone happened during a prime-time special called The Price Is Right $1,000,000 Spectacular. Contestant Adam Rose hit the jackpot by spinning $1.00 twice in the Showcase Showdown — and later, he nailed a winning bid during the Showcase round.

Plinko Is the Fan Favorite

Ask almost any fan, and they’ll name Plinko as their favorite pricing game. Introduced in 1983, Plinko quickly became a show staple thanks to its simplicity and tension-filled gameplay. The board has remained largely unchanged for decades, although prize values and aesthetics have evolved. In one special episode, the top prize was raised to $100,000, making it one of the most dramatic segments in show history.

The Most Expensive Showcase Ever

The single most expensive Showcase in the show’s history was offered in 2013 and valued at over $157,000. It included a luxury sports car, international vacations, and high-end electronics. The contestant won — making it one of the most jaw-dropping payouts in daytime television history.

A Show Without Commercials?

Technically, The Price Is Right is full of commercials — but they’re cleverly integrated. Almost every product featured in the pricing games or showcases is a form of advertising. Companies often supply these products in exchange for airtime and exposure, making the show a pioneering example of embedded marketing long before the term became mainstream.

A Guinness World Record Holder

The Price Is Right holds the Guinness World Record for the most episodes of a single game show. It also holds records for longest-running game show and highest number of prizes awarded on a game show. These accolades reflect the show’s consistency and mass appeal across generations.

Thousands of Prizes — But Not Always Claimed

While the show has awarded millions of dollars in prizes, not every contestant ends up keeping them. Some decline car or vacation packages due to tax burdens, while others have to forfeit because of eligibility issues or relocation restrictions. Still, the thrill of winning live on stage is its own reward for many contestants.

Summary

The Price Is Right has stood the test of time with more than just spinning wheels and excited contestants. Its rich history, quirky facts, and milestone moments offer a fascinating look at how a simple concept — guessing the price of everyday items — has turned into a television legend. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, there’s always more to learn about this timeless classic. And as always, don’t forget: come on down!