PETA Statement: Goodbye to Bob Barker, a National Animal Rights Treasure

For Immediate Release:
August 26, 2023

Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382

Below, please find a statement from PETA President Ingrid Newkirk following the passing of TV legend and longtime supporter Bob Barker:

Bob’s influence on the entertainment industry is indisputable, but what mattered to him most was using his voice and prominent position to protect animals. Of course, everyone is familiar with his “spay and neuter your pets” sign-off on The Price Is Right—a show where he refused to allow fur prizes—but he was also one of the first stars to go vegetarian, more than 30 years ago. He joined PETA in urging families to stay away from SeaWorld, demanded the closure of cruel bear pits masquerading as tourist attractions, implored Hollywood to take action to protect animals used in film and TV, and, as a Navy veteran, called for the end of military medical drills on live animals. His generous donation allowed PETA to open its West Coast headquarters, the Bob Barker Building, in 2012, and it stands as a testament to his legacy and profound commitment to making the world a kinder place. To us—and to so many animals around the world—Bob will always be a national animal rights treasure.

PETA’s motto reads that “animals are not ours to experiment on, eat, wear, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way,” and more information is available at PETA.org.