When Drew Carey walked onto the iconic stage to host The Price Is Right, television history shifted. His very first episode officially aired on October 15, 2007, marking the start of the show's 36th season on CBS. Stepping into shoes left by a legend is never easy, but Carey managed to carve out a multi-decade tenure that redefined daytime television.
Transitioning from stand-up comedy and improv to daytime television required a complete shift in style. Bob Barker had hosted the program for 35 years, establishing a formal, polished tone. When Carey took over, he brought a self-deprecating humor, a casual demeanor, and an obvious love for the contestants. Understanding how this transition unfolded reveals the behind-the-scenes reality of television's longest-running game show.
The Search for Bob Barker's Successor
Bob Barker announced his retirement in October 2006, setting off a massive scramble in Hollywood. Producers needed someone who could handle unscripted television, manage live audiences, and maintain the fast pace required by daytime broadcast slots.
Several prominent television personalities were floated or auditioned for the role, including:
- Mario Lopez: Fresh off his run on Dancing with the Stars, he was considered a front-runner due to his youthful energy and mainstream appeal.
- Todd Newton: A veteran game show host who had extensive experience working with network formats.
- Mark Steines: Then-co-host of Entertainment Tonight, who even guest-hosted a mock version during testing.
- George Hamilton: The tanned actor whose name circulated heavily among network executives during early talks.
Despite heavy speculation around traditional game show hosts, CBS ultimately chose Carey. At the time, Carey was hosting the prime-time quiz show Power of 10 and was widely recognized for his work on Whose Line Is It Anyway? and The Drew Carey Show. Network executives realized that an improv background was the ultimate asset for managing unpredictable studio audiences and excited contestants.
Taping and Airing: The Timeline
While Carey's first episode didn't hit television screens until October 15, 2007, the actual work began months prior.
Bob Barker's final recorded episode aired on June 15, 2007, though it was actually taped earlier that month on June 6. This created a summer-long gap where the stage sat empty while production retooled the set, updated the graphics, and tested camera angles for the incoming host.
Carey taped his first batch of episodes starting on August 15, 2007. Stepping in front of a live studio audience for the first time presented distinct nervous energy. In subsequent interviews, Carey admitted he spent his first few weeks terrified of messing up the games or misreading the pricing boards. Producers banked several weeks of shows before the October premiere, ensuring a smooth broadcast rollout for the fall television schedule.
Adapting to the Role: The Early Years
Taking over a treasured cultural institution invited immediate scrutiny. Die-hard fans of Bob Barker were critical of everything from Carey's wardrobe choices—he famously ditched Barker's signature skinny mic for a handheld microphone—to his more relaxed delivery style.
Early on, Carey didn't try to mimic Barker. Instead, he leaned into his own personality. He laughed openly when contestants made catastrophic bidding mistakes, shared genuine hugs with winners, and brought a distinct conversational rhythm to the stage. By the end of his first full season, ratings stabilized, proving that the audience had embraced his unique brand of warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Drew Carey change any of the classic games?
No. Producers kept the core structure intact. Fan-favorite games like Plinko, Cliff Hangers, and The Price Is Right staple pricing challenges remained untouched during the transition to preserve the show's nostalgia factor.
Did Bob Barker ever return to the show after retiring?
Yes. Barker returned once on April 16, 2009, to promote his memoir and surprise the audience. He received a standing ovation from both the crowd and Carey himself.
How many seasons has Drew Carey hosted?
Carey has hosted the show for nearly two decades, presiding over thousands of episodes and well over a dozen production seasons, placing him securely among the longest-running game show hosts in history.
Where is The Price Is Right filmed?
The show tapes at Television City in Los Angeles, California, utilizing the historic Stage 33, which has housed the production since its 1972 revival by creator Bob Barker.
