“The Price Is Right,” a beloved game show that has entertained audiences for over five decades, recently reached a major milestone with its 10,000th episode in February 2025. Known for its engaging atmosphere, colorful prizes, and iconic catchphrases, the show continues to captivate viewers with its high-stakes games and fun-filled moments. However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a set of surprising and quirky rules that may even surprise the most loyal fans. From banned prizes to unusual contestant restrictions, here’s a look at some of the lesser-known policies that make The Price Is Right one of a kind.
The No Meat Policy
One of the most unexpected rules on The Price Is Right revolves around its strict no-meat policy. Former host Bob Barker, a passionate animal rights advocate, instilled a philosophy of cruelty-free living that extended to the show’s prizes. For many years, the production team made sure no real meat products appeared on the set or were offered as prizes, aligning with Barker’s vegan stance. Even the props used on the show, like the fake steaks placed on grills, adhered to the same principle. When Drew Carey took over hosting duties in 2017, he slightly loosened this rule by allowing fake meat props to make a comeback. However, the policy still stands, banning real meat or leather products as prizes.
A Controversial Banned Prize: Grandfather Clocks
Not all prizes are as adored as they seem. Drew Carey, who took over hosting in 2017, famously expressed his personal distaste for one particular prize: grandfather clocks. Despite their popularity with the audience, Carey never quite understood their appeal. Over time, he managed to have them removed from the prize pool, humorously recalling his relief at finally voicing his opinion about the unwanted timepieces. The absence of grandfather clocks remains one of the more unusual decisions in the show’s history, but it clearly resonated with the host.
Restrictions on Contestants
The Price Is Right has several strict guidelines governing who can appear on the show. For example, current CBS employees are prohibited from participating due to potential conflicts of interest, and active political candidates are also banned from appearing as required by federal “Equal Time” media laws. Another interesting restriction is that former contestants can return to the show, but only after a 10-year hiatus between appearances. Additionally, contestants who have appeared on four or more TV game shows in the past decade are disqualified, ensuring that the pool of hopefuls remains fresh and new.
Dress Code for Audience Members
The studio audience plays a crucial role in The Price Is Right, helping create the energetic and colorful atmosphere. As such, producers encourage audience members to dress for the occasion. Bright, colorful, and fun outfits are highly encouraged, as they add to the excitement of the show. However, there are some restrictions in place: white clothing is discouraged, and audience members are prohibited from wearing shorts or skirts that are too short, as well as sandals or open-toed shoes, for safety reasons. These guidelines ensure that the studio audience looks visually engaging without compromising safety standards.
No Trading Prizes for Cash
A common misconception among fans is that contestants can trade their prizes for cash if they don’t want them. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Once a contestant wins a prize, they must accept it or forfeit it entirely. There’s no option for a cash-out or trade, and any winnings must be declared as taxable income on federal tax forms. While some contestants may win prizes they don’t need or want, the rules are clear: they must take the prize or walk away empty-handed.
Banning Bribes and Ticket Scalping
In the competitive world of game shows, some participants may attempt to bribe their way onto the show, but The Price Is Right has strict rules against this. Contestants and potential contestants are prohibited from offering bribes to anyone in the production team, including ticket distributors. Even though some may try to win favors with flattery or gifts, the rules are clear: no one is allowed to exchange favors for a chance to appear on the stage.
Additionally, selling or transferring tickets is strictly forbidden. Those lucky enough to secure a ticket through the show’s lottery system cannot resell or profit from their spot. If a ticket holder is unable to attend a taping, they are allowed to reschedule but cannot sell or auction their ticket to someone else.
Spoiler Alert: Keep Quiet About Your Win
Finally, there’s a rule that contestants must adhere to: keeping their prize wins a secret until the episode airs. Contestants are legally bound to remain silent about what they won until their episode is broadcast on CBS. This helps prevent spoilers and ensures that the audience can enjoy the full excitement of the game, following along with the contestants as they reveal their prizes.
Conclusion: The Charm of The Price Is Right’s Quirks
The Price Is Right has continued to evolve over the years, but its unique set of rules and policies has remained a constant. From its no-meat prize policy to the hilarious banishment of grandfather clocks, the show keeps surprising its fans with its quirks. As the show celebrates its 10,000th episode, it’s clear that The Price Is Right remains a game show like no other, filled with unexpected twists, unforgettable moments, and rules that add even more charm to its legacy.
