To my fellow fans of THE PRICE IS RIGHT,
I am writing to thank the show's fans for all the support and encouragement during my two-and-a half-years as director of this important American institution. It was an honor.
To me, THE PRICE IS RIGHT is not important by counting the number of years it has existed on television, or my the billions in revenue it has generated world-wide, but by the meaningful emotional significance this show holds with viewers past and present. Simply put, THE PRICE IS RIGHT touches people's lives in so many ways.
As director of THE PRICE IS RIGHT I was not only able to achieve my life's dream and career goal to direct this very show which I have loved so much since my youth, the very show wish inspired me to become a director, but that I was able to work with so many caring and professional people to do my part in restoring the luster that the show so richly deserves and to help guide it's updating in a way that honors it's creative and aesthetic tradition.
Unfortunately, it appears that last Wednesday's taping will turn out to be my last as director of THE PRICE IS RIGHT. Yesterday, I was informed that I will not be finishing the season along with my co-workers in Studio 33. Sadly, I was never at any time granted a meeting to discuss how I might be able to continue with the show to celebrate it's 40th Anniversary season as director.
And so I return to being an avid viewer of THE PRICE IS RIGHT. I wish Drew, the cast, staff and crew all my best as they continue to give their all on behalf of this wonderful show. I also thank them all from the bottom of my heart for allowing me the honor of directing and guiding this show.
To all of you reading this, our most involved and loyal viewers, who care so much about this show to go beyond the one-hour broadcast to visit and post to the fan websites and participate in spirited discussions, your passion has always encouraged me to do my best for you!
Thank you all.
Rich DiPirro