'Price Is Right' producer defends Bob Barker amid harassment claims in documentary

Longtime producer of “The Price Is Right,” Roger Dobkowitz, spoke in support of Bob Barker amidst serious claims featured in the “Dirty Rotten Scandals” documentary.

Having contributed to over 4,600 episodes across 36 years, Dobkowitz posted an extensive social media statement expressing his initial reluctance to engage with what he deemed an obvious "hit piece," hoping it would "quietly fade away."

The six-part series on E! dedicated two episodes to the enduring CBS show, incorporating accounts from “Barker’s Beauties” models who alleged experiences or observations of sexual misconduct, retaliation, or an intimidating workplace.

"Numerous friends inquired about my perspective on the recently broadcast E documentary,” Dobkowitz stated. “Up until this point, I refrained from commenting to avoid amplifying what is clearly a 'hit piece.' The so-called 'documentary' belongs forgotten, like many other baseless 'exposes.'"

Dobkowitz observed that the program "hasn't really made much of an impact," suggesting "fewer people care" or recall, given that the alleged events occurred three decades ago on a daytime show.

“I now feel comfortable sharing my perspective, crucially defending the honor and authenticity of our remarkable show,” he mentioned. 

“This supposed 'expose' makes it clear to me that some individuals willingly exaggerate or fabricate stories to support a personal vendetta, purely to gain attention.

"It's even more problematic that the accusations target someone who has passed, leaving them unable to defend themselves. The term 'brave' shouldn't apply to someone denigrating a deceased individual."

He elaborated, "Typically, people and society move on, particularly once disputes are concluded in court. Most are relieved to have resolved a troublesome issue.

"Seeing someone continuously bring it up for 30 more years suggests an inability to act maturely."

Dobkowitz contemplated authoring a book about his 36 years on the show, capturing “36 years of insights regarding Bob, the models, and the team,” potentially dispelling numerous myths and inaccuracies."

"The show was a joyous environment...our workplace was admired by others. Rarely did the staff leave...many of the models returned each year, delighted to be part of our show,” he shared.

"Dissatisfaction typically came from those who didn’t receive the raise they wanted, the promotion they thought they deserved, or those dismissed for not doing their jobs. Naturally, we had a few such individuals, but they were vastly outnumbered compared to other companies."

He concluded, “I witnessed this for 36 years. I worked on that set."

Barker, who helmed the show for 35 years, passed away in 2023 at the age of 99.

Model Holly Hallstrom, part of "Barker’s Beauties," was with the show from 1977 until her termination in 1995, which she claims stemmed from weight gain due to medication. 

Nonetheless, Hallstrom insists her firing occurred after she refused to publicly back Barker following a sexual harassment suit filed by fellow model Dian Parkinson in 1994.