Bob Barker, known for his role as America’s beloved game show host, has left behind a complex legacy following his passing in 2023 at the age of 99. Marc Summers, former host of Nickelodeon’s “Double Dare,” recently discussed Barker’s behind-the-scenes persona during an appearance on “Nostalgia Tonight with Joe Sibilia” to celebrate the show’s 40th anniversary.
Summers commented on the E! docuseries “Dirty Rotten Scandals,” which delves into allegations that “The Price Is Right” fostered a hostile work environment, alongside accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination. Summers shared his experiences working with Barker and noted the host’s substantial ego.
“When Dorothy Jo (Barker’s wife) passed away, he kind of became a different guy, and his ego wouldn’t fit in the room,” Summers said. “It was all about Bob. On his dressing room door, it said ‘WGMC’ — ‘World’s Greatest MC.'”
Summers recounted an incident at Studio 33, where “The Price Is Right” was filmed. During a production by “The Newlywed Game” host Bob Eubanks, Eubanks hid the “WGMC” sign from Barker’s dressing room as a prank. Barker, refusing to go on until the sign was found, eventually discovered it hidden under a couch.
Summers, recalling his early days as a young “idea man,” initially got along with Barker. Yet, the collaboration became challenging when Barker asked Summers to write questions for a show Barker was producing. Despite Summers’ efforts to impress Barker by exceeding the requested number of questions, Barker compensated him minimally.
Accusations against Barker have persisted, notably in the case of Holly Hallstrom, a former “Barker’s Beauty.” Hallstrom alleged she was fired due to weight gain from medication after refusing to publicly support Barker amid Dian Parkinson’s sexual harassment lawsuit in 1994. Barker denied wrongdoing and stated any relationships were consensual.
Although Parkinson eventually dropped her lawsuit in 1995, claiming emotional and financial toll, Hallstrom refrained from participating in Barker’s public defense. Hallstrom said she was blacklisted in the entertainment industry and linked her termination to her refusal to conform to Barker’s narrative.
Hallstrom and Barker engaged in extended legal battles, culminating in a settlement with CBS. Hallstrom insisted she would not be silenced, opting against a nondisclosure agreement and preserving her voice in the matter.
Despite criticisms, Barker’s longtime publicist praised his contribution to television, while producer Roger Dobkowitz dismissed the docuseries as a negative portrayal, affirming “The Price Is Right” as a positive work environment for many.
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