Legendary Price is Right host Bob Barker dies aged 99

Veteran TV host Bob Barker has passed aged 99.

Known for classic game shows such as The Price is Right and Truth or Consequences, Barker had been a mainstay of US television for decades.

Sadly though, he passed away at his LA home, his publicist confirmed today (August 26).

Getty/CBS Photo Archive

In a statement, his publicist Roger Neal told the press: “It is with profound sadness that we announce that the World’s Greatest MC who ever lived, Bob Barker has left us."

The news will come as a shock to fans, some of whom had been watching the TV host since 1956.

At the time, Barker had been presenting Truth or Consequences on NBC and he remained as the host until 1975.

However, his big break would come in 1972 when he began presenting The Price is Right.

Viewers at home would love the game show, which centred around US contestants being able to accurate guess the cost of various items ranging from a toaster to a brand new car.

By 1990, the series had become the longest running daytime game show ever.

The veteran TV personality reportedly appeared in over 6,500 episodes before stepping down in June 2007, with the host gushing about his time on the show.

He told Entertainment Weekly: "It’s a lot more fun to do than a person might realize...Each audience has its own personality. It’s like mining for gold.

"I’m looking for little gems with whom I can create spontaneous entertainment."

Getty/Matt Winkelmeyer

Since news of his passing was confirmed, people have taken to social media to share their tributes.

One person wrote: "RIP Bob Barker. An absolute legend. Price Is Right with Bob Barker will forever be the GOAT game show."

Another said: "A staple of television for 50 years. The smoothest broadcaster in the field of game shows. The man who took care of America's kids when they stayed home from school. Bob Barker, host of Truth or Consequences and The Price Is Right, has passed at age 99."

"RIP Bob Barker. You made my childhood sick days so much fun. Thank you for so many great memories," put a third.

While someone else added: "I can't believe it. We lost Bob Barker, and just months before he would've turned 100.

"10 days ago, I rewatched scenes of him kicking Adam Sandler's a*s and it was, without a doubt, insanely priceless.

"RIP Bob Barker. You will always be a legend."