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Bob Barker, Longtime 'Price is Right' Host, Never Had Children
The late TV personality was a lifelong animal rights activist who chose not to start a family.
Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:19am
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Bob Barker, the iconic host of the long-running game show 'The Price is Right', was known for his passionate advocacy for animal rights. Despite being married once and having a long-term girlfriend, Barker never had children of his own, as he felt his commitment to animals left no time for a family. Barker's wife and girlfriend were also animal lovers, and he adopted numerous stray pets over the years. Though he enjoyed working with children on set, Barker was content focusing his life on his animal welfare work.
Why it matters
Barker's decision not to have children was shaped by his strong dedication to animal rights, which was a central part of his public persona and private life. His choice highlights how personal values and priorities can lead individuals to forgo traditional milestones like parenthood. Barker's legacy as an animal advocate continues to inspire many, even after his passing.
The details
Bob Barker hosted 'The Price is Right' from 1972 to 2007. In recent years, allegations of sexual harassment on the show's set during Barker's tenure have resurfaced. However, Barker himself was not accused of any inappropriate behavior. Barker was married to Dorothy Jo Gideon until her death in 1981, and later had a long-term relationship with Nancy Burnet, who founded an animal rights organization. Barker adopted numerous stray animals over the years and was a vocal advocate for spaying and neutering pets to control the pet population.
- Barker hosted 'The Price is Right' from 1972 to 2007.
- Barker's wife Dorothy Jo Gideon passed away in 1981.
- Barker began his relationship with Nancy Burnet two years after his wife's death, in 1983.
The players
Bob Barker
The longtime host of 'The Price is Right' game show, known for his passionate advocacy of animal rights.
Dorothy Jo Gideon
Barker's wife, who was an early adopter of vegetarianism.
Nancy Burnet
Barker's long-term girlfriend, who founded an animal rights organization.
What they’re saying
“We didn't have time for children. I don't regret it, not when so many of my friends are having so much trouble with their children. I have 13 ducks, and that's a lot of work.”
— Bob Barker
“Just about everywhere we ever traveled, we became involved in some animal issue or something.”
— Nancy Burnet, Barker's girlfriend
The takeaway
Bob Barker's decision not to have children was shaped by his lifelong passion for animal welfare, which he pursued through his work, marriage, and personal life. His commitment to animal rights over traditional family life serves as a reminder that individuals can find fulfillment through unconventional paths.


