In the world of game shows, few legacies loom as large as that of Bob Barker, the beloved longtime host of The Price is Right. For over 35 years, Barker was not just a presenter—he was a household name, a comforting presence, and an irreplaceable part of daily television. When Drew Carey took over in 2007, fans knew they weren’t just witnessing a change in hosts—they were seeing the end of an era.

Drew Carey, known for his laid-back style and comedic timing, had big shoes to fill. While he brought a fresh energy and a more casual tone to the show, fans couldn’t help but compare his performance to the golden years under Barker. Carey didn’t attempt to mimic his predecessor. Instead, he chose to infuse the show with his own personality—quirky, humorous, and authentic. And while many viewers grew to appreciate his approach, there’s one particular game that continues to stir up debate and nostalgia: Range Game.

The Range Game, a deceptively simple pricing challenge, has become symbolic of the difference between Drew and Bob. Contestants must stop a slowly moving rangefinder within a certain dollar window to match the actual price of a prize. The game’s suspense relies heavily on timing, emotion, and delivery—and that’s where Barker made magic.

Bob Barker had a unique way of building tension during this game. His humor, charm, and timing were unmatched. One of his most famous lines, “We can’t start the rangefinder again for 37 hours,” became a fan-favorite catchphrase. It was delivered with just the right touch of absurdity and charm, earning laughs and embedding itself into game show history.

In contrast, Drew’s performance in the same game, while competent, doesn’t evoke the same emotional reaction for longtime fans. Social media was abuzz during a recent airing of Range Game, with fans sharing their memories and comparisons. One user noted, “I love Drew, but Bob made Range Game legendary. That 39-hour bit still cracks me up.” Another posted a playful nod to the pop culture classic Happy Gilmore: “The price is wrong, Bob! 27 and a half hours!”

Despite the comparisons, fans also recognize and respect Drew Carey’s journey. His transition from stand-up comedian to daytime game show host was never expected to be easy. Yet over time, he’s earned respect for staying true to himself while honoring the spirit of the show. He’s made changes, built rapport with contestants, and never shied away from expressing his admiration for Barker.

In interviews, Carey often refers to Barker as a mentor and legend, acknowledging that he could never fully replace him—and perhaps that’s his greatest strength. He’s not trying to be Bob Barker; he’s trying to be Drew Carey.

The passing of Bob Barker in 2023 at the age of 99 brought waves of tributes from across the globe. From celebrities to former contestants, everyone had a Barker story—a fond memory of a time he made them laugh, gasp, or feel like they were part of something bigger. His loss was not just the end of a career, but the closing chapter of a cherished era in television.

While Drew Carey continues to lead The Price is Right with energy and grace, the shadow of Bob Barker will always linger—especially in games like Range Game, where magic once happened. But Carey’s humility, sincerity, and love for the show ensure that The Price is Right remains special for new generations, even as it honors its legendary past.

In the end, maybe that’s what matters most—not recreating what was, but preserving the heart of what made it unforgettable.