“‘The Price Is Right’ Models Accuse Harassment Under Bob Barker Era”
Former models and staff from The Price Is Right have gone on record about a workplace culture of inappropriate behavior during Bob Barker’s tenure. Their accounts appear in the new two-part docuseries Dirty Rotten Scandals. The series revisits decades of allegations and legal battles tied to the long-running game show.
Claims from former models and crew
Several past employees describe routine objectification and unwanted contact on set. Kathleen Bradley, Holly Hallstrom and former producer Barbara Hunter are among those who speak in the series.
Hunter, who worked on the show in the mid-1970s, says a stagehand once groped her in an elevator. She says she reported the behavior and saw no action taken by producers. Hunter also describes using a set of golf clubs to stop the man after repeated misconduct.
“10-second” rule and allegations about Barker
Holly Hallstrom, a model from 1977 to 1995, says production introduced a so-called “10-second rule.” She calls the measure a superficial response to staring and harassment complaints. Hallstrom alleges management, and at times host Bob Barker, silenced women who raised concerns.
The series also recalls an alleged relationship between Barker and former model Dian Parkinson. Barker retired in 2007 and died on Aug. 26, 2023.
Legal history tied to the show
The Price Is Right has a long record of legal disputes. In 1994, Parkinson filed an $8 million sexual harassment lawsuit. She withdrew the claim the following year.
Holly Hallstrom was later involved in a separate conflict with Barker. He sued her for libel and slander. He dropped that suit 48 hours before trial, and Hallstrom countersued for wrongful termination and malicious prosecution.
Production response and broadcast details
Fremantle, the show’s production company, declined to comment on the documentary. Filmogaz.com has reached out to Barker’s representative for comment as well. The docuseries airs on E! on Wednesday, March 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Context and ongoing discussion
The Price Is Right remains on air in its 54th season. The new testimonies have renewed debate about workplace safety in television production. Many former models and staff hope the documentary prompts further accountability.
