Leading American TV journalist and news anchor Barbara Walters has passed away at the age of 93.
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Walters became the first female anchor on an American network evening newscast and created the popular female talk show Scene in 1997.
The news of his death was confirmed by Robert Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, the parent company of The View’s network ABC.
She wrote: “Barbara was a true legend, a pioneer not only for women in journalism but for journalism itself.
“She was a one-of-a-kind reporter, landing many of the most important interviews of our time, from heads of state to the biggest celebrities and sporting icons.”
Iger said: “I had the pleasure of calling Barbara a colleague for more than three decades, but more importantly I was able to call her a dear friend.
“He will be missed by all of us at The Walt Disney Company, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his daughter, Jacqueline.”
Walters’ publicist, Cindy Berger, said: “Barbara Walters passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones.
“She lived her life without any regrets. She was a torchbearer not only for women journalists, but for all women.
I have sad news to share today. Barbara Walters passed away this evening at her home in New York. pic.twitter.com/fxSyU6BQk4
— Robert Iger (@RobertIger) December 31, 2022
In a career spanning more than half a century, Walters has interviewed some of the world’s best-known leaders, including Fidel Castro, Saddam Hussein, Boris Yeltsin, Vladimir Putin and, most recently, US Pres.
She retired in 2014 after a career that made her a pioneer for women in the broadcast media industries in the United States.
Prominent in paying tribute to Walters was Oprah Winfrey, who wrote: “Without Barbara Walters I wouldn’t be me – and neither would any other woman you see on the evening, morning and daily news. She was truly a trailblazer. The television audition was done keeping him in mind the whole time.
“Grateful that she was such a powerful and gracious role model. Grateful to have known her. Grateful to walk in her light.
Elsewhere, actor Hugh Jackman said: “She was a pioneer, wickedly funny, generous, open-minded and a good friend. She also gave us some of the most memorable dinner parties ever. Heavens get ready, Barbara to spice things up.” is coming.
Deb and I are very sad that Barbara Walters passed away. She was a trailblazer, wickedly funny, generous, open-hearted and a good friend. he also gave
One of the most memorable dinner parties ever. Heavens get ready, Barbara is coming to spice things up. @deborra_lee pic.twitter.com/pQfLSG5m7a— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) December 31, 2022
Monica Lewinsky, one of Walters’ interviewers, said: “She was the first person I ever sat down with for a television interview … and will certainly be one of my most memorable. Barbara will be missed by many people – including me.” I am also involved.
“The last time we saw each other was for lunch a few years ago. Sure, she was charming, funny and some of her questions were still her signature interview style.
A short note on the passing of Barbara Walters:
I’ve known Barbara more than half my life. We met in the spring of 1998 in the middle of Star Probe; I was 24 years old. I remarked that this was the first time I had been in serious trouble. I was basically a cool kid-
(1/4)– Monica Lewinsky (he / her) (@MonicaLewinsky) December 31, 2022