This month marks a significant milestone in Drew Carey’s career as he celebrates 17 years of hosting the iconic game show The Price Is Right. Known for its catchy tagline, “Come on down!”, the show has become a staple of American television, with more than 70,000 contestants, over $300 million in cash and prizes, and generations of fans tuning in. Carey’s tenure has been marked by his infectious humor, relatability, and unwavering commitment to keeping the fun alive, but his journey to this point has been an interesting and somewhat spiritual one.

When asked how it felt to have hosted the legendary game show for so many years, Drew Carey reflected on the deep sense of alignment he feels with the role. He shared with Hoda and Jenna during a recent interview that it feels as if everything in his life has prepared him to host The Price Is Right. He remarked, “It feels like I did nothing else my whole life. When I talk about things I did before, it feels like a dream. It’s such a good fit for me. It seems like everything I’ve done in my life prepared me to be the host of The Price Is Right.”

For Carey, his comedic background, his experiences in the entertainment industry, and even his early life all coalesced in a way that made him an ideal fit for the show. From his humble beginnings as a stand-up comedian to his rise in television, Drew Carey’s journey to The Price Is Right was shaped by hard work, persistence, and a bit of serendipity.

Before Carey became synonymous with The Price Is Right, his career received a major boost from a breakthrough appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. In the world of comedy, appearing on Johnny Carson’s show was considered a major milestone—an endorsement that could launch a comedian’s career into the stratosphere. For Carey, this moment was nothing short of life-changing.

Carey shared with Hoda and Jenna how surreal the moment felt when Johnny Carson invited him to sit on the famous couch after his stand-up set. “That whole moment in my life was so surreal,” Carey recalled. “When I was in junior high, I went to a Pentecostal church. When people— they do an altar call and speak in tongues, that was the closest I’ve ever felt to that because I was just like floating the whole time I was there.” He described the surreal sensation of being in that moment, feeling as though he was in a dream. “It was like I was in a dream state or something. I just couldn’t believe it.”

Carey had even envisioned this moment the night before. He vividly saw himself performing his stand-up set on The Tonight Show, down to the finest details. He had been working a gig in Chicago, and even though he lived in Los Angeles, he flew out to do the show. It was this kind of preparation and faith in himself that allowed him to seize the opportunity when it came.

Despite all his detailed preparation, Carey admitted that he had no idea how the set would go. He had his notes ready, but once he was backstage, he had an instinct to throw them aside. “When they walked me out to do the set, I had my notebook, and I just threw it in the corner. I didn’t get a chance to look at my notes and then when I went out, everything I wanted was there.” This moment was a major turning point in Carey’s career, and it set the stage for the comedy career that would eventually lead him to The Price Is Right.

Fast forward to 2007, and Drew Carey took over as the host of The Price Is Right, replacing the legendary Bob Barker. Initially, it may have seemed like an unexpected change for some viewers. Bob Barker had been the face of the show for decades, and the idea of someone new stepping in was a big deal. Yet, Carey seamlessly slid into the role, and fans quickly warmed up to him.

As part of the celebration of his 17 years on the show, Drew Carey played a round of Plinko with Hoda and Jenna, which became a fun and humorous moment for the audience. Plinko, the fan-favorite game on The Price Is Right, involves contestants dropping a chip into a large board full of pegs, where it bounces around before landing in a slot that corresponds to a cash prize. During the interview, Carey showed his playful side as he joked with the hosts about the best strategy for playing the game. “The trick is to drop it in the middle right below the ‘N,’” he revealed with a laugh, giving away some of the game’s secrets. “You don’t want to throw it down; you just want to let it go.”

The moment was a nostalgic reminder of how much The Price Is Right has become a part of the cultural fabric. For many fans, games like Plinko are the highlight of the show, and Carey’s involvement has only enhanced the enjoyment. He said it felt incredibly natural, a further testament to how well he’s adapted to the role of host.

Drew Carey’s journey to hosting The Price Is Right didn’t happen overnight, and his comedic roots played a pivotal role in making him the host that fans love. Carey’s career in comedy began long before he took over the game show’s reins. His rise to fame started in the comedy clubs of Cleveland, and he honed his craft over the years until his big break on The Tonight Show.

Carey’s unique combination of humor and authenticity helped him connect with audiences. As he reflected on his time on The Price Is Right, he credited his comedic background for his comfort in front of the camera. “I’m a comedian at heart,” Carey said, a statement that couldn’t be truer. His ability to make jokes, engage with contestants, and add levity to tense moments has been a key factor in making The Price Is Right a show that audiences continue to love.

In addition to his humor, Carey’s relatability has helped him establish a deep connection with the audience. As a host, he’s able to balance the excitement of the game with genuine moments of empathy, making him a beloved figure in American television. His down-to-earth personality makes him more than just the host of a game show; he’s someone viewers feel they can relate to and laugh with.

After 17 years, Drew Carey has not only become the face of The Price Is Right, but he’s also continued to evolve as a performer and television personality. While he still finds joy in the game show’s classic format, it’s clear that Carey is not someone who rests on his laurels. He remains active in various aspects of entertainment, continuing to build his legacy as a comedian, actor, and television host.

Looking forward, Drew Carey expressed how thankful he is for the incredible opportunity to host The Price Is Right. He acknowledged how surreal it feels to have had such a long and successful run, and how grateful he is to be part of a show that holds such a significant place in television history.

The journey from stand-up comic to game show host is a testament to Drew Carey’s adaptability and work ethic, but more than that, it reflects his unwavering passion for connecting with audiences. Whether it’s through his time on The Price Is Right or his stand-up comedy, Drew Carey has proven that he’s much more than just a television personality—he’s an entertainer who continues to bring joy to millions.

As Carey marks 17 years of hosting The Price Is Right, fans can expect even more fun, games, and unforgettable moments to come. And who knows? Maybe another Plinko game with Hoda and Jenna could be in the future!