Producer Defends Bob Barker Amid Allegations
Roger Dobkowitz, a longtime producer of “The Price is Right,” has come forward to support Bob Barker in light of recent claims made in the documentary “The Dirty Rotten Scandal.” Over 36 years, Dobkowitz was involved in more than 4,600 episodes of the iconic game show.
In a statement shared on social media, Dobkowitz mentioned that he wished to avoid discussing what he termed “obvious hits” against Barker, hoping the documentary would eventually fade away. The six-part E! series spotlighted CBS’s longstanding show and included interviews with models known as “Barker’s Beauties.” They alleged experiences of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment.
“Many friends have reached out to me regarding the E-documentary that recently aired,” Dobkowitz expressed. “However, I’ve held back from commenting on this film as I didn’t want to draw attention to what seems like an obvious hit piece. This so-called ‘documentary,’ alongside other past ‘revelations,’ should quietly vanish into the depths of television’s forgotten content.”
He did acknowledge that the show doesn’t seem to capture much attention nowadays. “Fewer people seem to care or even remember it, likely since an incident that supposedly took place on a daytime game show about 30 years ago,” he remarked.
Dobkowitz felt compelled to voice his thoughts to defend the dignity of the show. “This so-called exposure has shown me that some individuals will exaggerate or fabricate falsehoods to gain attention and seek revenge on others. What’s particularly disheartening is that the accused is no longer alive, making it impossible for him to defend himself. Using the term ‘brave’ in reference to someone going after a deceased individual feels inappropriate.”
“Most people move on after disputes are resolved,” he continued, adding that such experiences should prompt personal growth. “When someone holds onto grievances for decades, it raises questions about their emotional maturity.”
Dobkowitz has considered writing a book detailing his extensive time on the show, which would include personal observations about Barker, the models, and the staff. He believes it could help clear misconceptions and debunk false accusations.
Reflecting on the workplace culture, he noted, “Our environment was often envied by others. Staff rarely left, and numerous models returned year after year, happy to be part of the show.” He recognized that any dissatisfaction typically stemmed from issues like unfulfilled promotion expectations or poor job performance.
He concluded with a personal touch, stating, “I was there for 36 years, on that very stage.”
Barker, who hosted the show for an impressive 35 years, passed away in 2023 at the age of 99. One former model, Holly Hallstrom, who was part of the show from 1977 until her dismissal in 1995, claimed her termination was due to her refusal to publicly support Barker amid a harassment lawsuit filed against him. After Barker sued Hallstrom for defamation, she engaged in a prolonged legal battle, claiming emotional distress and discrimination.
Hallstrom asserted that she faced a sort of blacklisting within the industry and encountered severe financial difficulties. She also turned down a settlement that included a non-disclosure agreement, insisting on her right to speak out. Throughout it all, Barker consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming that any relationships he had were consensual.
