How Much for the Dinette Set?

If you’re pondering whether a smash hit also can be a cult phenomenon, look no farther. Not only is “The Price Is Right” the longest-running game show in TV history at 32 years and counting, it also claims a vast undying legion of devotees. On a typical weekday morning, hundreds of passionate fans from all over the country line up on Bob Barker Promenade at CBS Television City in Los Angeles, hoping first for a spot in the audience and then for the ultimate: a chance to stand before host Bob Barker and try their luck guessing product prices for a shot at prize packages that include cars, household furnishings and vacations. We quizzed a few game souls.

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Billy Hamaker

Retired from U.S. Postal Service

Montgomery, Texas

Tell us about your T-shirt.

“Greatest GrandPaw,” on the front. On the back, “Hey Bob Meet My Barkers,” my kids’ pets. My youngest daughter made this.

Who gets on the show?

You don’t want someone who doesn’t have much to say. I never shut up.

Who doesn’t get on the show?

A sourpuss. I’ve been around. I’ve seen a few.

What will you do if you’re asked to “Come on down”?

I’m going to jump high, throw up my hands and yell, “Yes, Mama.”

Why would people make fools of themselves on TV?

Sometimes I think they’re on something or forgot their medication.

Why is Bob Barker known as a snappy dresser?

I think a wardrobe person tells him what to put on.

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Louvernia Ward

Registered Nurse

Orlando, Fla.

Tell us about your T-shirt.

“I’ve Been Thru Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne. Bob Please Rescue Me!” And we have been through a whole lot.

Why are you spending part of your vacation doing this?

I’ve always wanted to. I watch it religiously, and when I’m not, I tape it.

What motivates people to make fools of themselves on TV?

In my work I have to be professional. But when we have an opportunity to let go. . . .

Game shows versus reality TV?

On reality TV, they do crazy things. I would not think of eating worms.

What accounts for Bob Barker’s reputation as a snappy dresser?

Somebody does it for him. But I believe he’s a neat person.

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Garrison Hardisty

U.S. Navy Diver

Coronado, Calif.

Why did you wear your uniform?

Out of pride for our nation.

Why are you spending your off-time doing this?

My guys in the shop had the idea. I’d never done this and I’m a native Californian.

Who doesn’t get on the show?

That’s reaching kind of deep. I think it’s pretty fair.

Would you be good at guessing product prices?

I’m a bachelor. I’ve had to survive on my own for quite some time now.

Why would people make fools of themselves on TV?

Having a great time, their natural charisma is going to come out.

Game shows versus reality TV?

I don’t think it can get any more real than this.

Does “P.I.R.” have a message?

The last message I saw was, neuter your dogs and cats.

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Juana Ross

Credit Manager

Phoenix, Ariz.

Where did you get your T-shirt?

I bought it in the CBS gift shop and changed in the ladies’ room.

Who gets on the show?

Anyone fun and cheerful.

What would you not do to get on?

I will not dance like a monkey.

What have you done that was good practice for this?

I’ve been the manager of cheerleaders.

What will you do if you’re asked to “Come on down”?

Jump up and scream, “Yes!”

What motivates people to make fools of themselves on TV in front of millions of people?

It’s a change of pace.

How does the “P.I.R.” crowd differ from the “Jeopardy!” crowd?

The “Jeopardy!” audience is more intellectual as far as history and art.

What accounts for Bob Barker’s reputation as a snappy dresser?

He makes a lot of money. Money does a lot of stuff with your clothes.