Barbara Walters’ Marriages: A Deep Dive into Her Three Husbands and Four Weddings
The legendary journalist and trailblazing television icon, Barbara Walters, passed away at the remarkable age of 93, leaving behind an indelible mark on the world of broadcasting. The news of her death, confirmed by her longtime former employer ABC News on Friday, December 30th, through an on-air tribute and online statement, saddened millions worldwide. Walters was more than just a news anchor; she was a cultural phenomenon, a pioneer who shattered glass ceilings, and a master interviewer who brought some of the most private and powerful individuals into the public eye.
Throughout her illustrious career, Barbara Walters interviewed an immeasurable number of global figures, from presidents like Donald Trump to entertainment titans such as Tom Cruise and Oprah Winfrey. She co-hosted iconic programs like 20/20 and The Today Show, but perhaps her most significant and lasting legacy was creating and starring on The View. Launched in 1997, this groundbreaking all-female daytime talk show provided a unique platform for spirited debates and diverse perspectives, a format that she championed until her retirement from television in 2014. Her impact on journalism, particularly for women in the field, is immeasurable, paving the way for countless others.
While her professional life was meticulously documented and celebrated, Barbara Walters’ personal life, particularly her marital history, often sparked curiosity. She was a woman of many accomplishments, and her romantic journey was no less complex or intriguing. Many are surprised to learn that while she had three husbands, she was married a total of four times. This unique aspect of her personal story is not a riddle but a reflection of a life lived with passion, resilience, and a willingness to explore relationships fully. This article delves into the lives of the men who shared her journey, exploring each of her three husbands and the four marriages that shaped her personal narrative.
- Barbara Walters embarked on three distinct marital relationships.
- Her beloved daughter, Jacqueline Dena Guber, was adopted during her second marriage to Lee Guber.
- Notably, she married her third husband, Merv Adelson, twice: first in 1981 and again in 1986, reflecting a deep, albeit complicated, connection.
Robert Henry Katz: The First Chapter
The first man to marry Barbara Walters was Robert Henry Katz. Their union marked an early chapter in Barbara’s life, preceding her rise to journalistic stardom. Robert, a distinguished individual in his own right, led a fulfilling career as a former Navy lieutenant and a successful business executive. Their wedding took place on June 20, 1955, in the opulent setting of the Plaza Hotel in New York City, a grand beginning for the then-26-year-old Barbara. At this point in her life, her pioneering career in broadcast journalism was still in its nascent stages; she was working as a production assistant and writer, diligently building the foundation for the iconic career that would follow.
Despite the hopeful start, the marriage between Barbara and Robert was fleeting. The demands of their individual paths, perhaps coupled with the rapid changes occurring in Barbara’s burgeoning professional life, led to a swift conclusion. They filed for divorce in 1957, and their marriage was formally annulled in 1958. While the details of their separation remain private, the annulment suggests a belief that the marriage was invalid from the start, a common legal recourse in brief unions. This short-lived first marriage provided Walters with early experience in navigating personal relationships under the public eye, an aspect of her life that would only grow more prominent with her increasing fame. Robert Henry Katz, though a brief partner, was a significant figure in the formative years of one of television’s most enduring personalities.
Lee Guber: Family and Foundation
Barbara Walters’ second husband, Lee Guber, represented a period of significant personal and professional growth for the journalist. Lee was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry himself, known as a successful theatrical producer and theater owner. Their wedding took place on December 8, 1963, a pivotal time when Barbara was steadily climbing the ranks at NBC’s The Today Show, transitioning from writer to “Today Girl” and eventually an on-air correspondent. This marriage coincided with the acceleration of her career, establishing her as a recognizable face and voice in American households.
A few years into their marriage, Barbara and Lee embarked on the deeply personal journey of parenthood. They initially explored the option of having biological children, but after facing struggles, they turned to adoption. Their path to becoming parents was a testament to their love and determination. A serendipitous opportunity arose when friends, who were hoping to adopt a boy, were instead offered a baby girl. Barbara and Lee, without hesitation, “jumped at the opportunity” to welcome a child into their lives. In 1968, they adopted their only daughter, Jacqueline Dena Guber, as an infant. This adoption was a profound moment, bringing immense joy and a new dimension to Barbara’s life, a role she cherished deeply despite the rigors of her demanding career.
The bond with Jacqueline remained a cornerstone of Barbara’s life, even after her marriage to Lee Guber concluded. After 13 years together, Barbara and Lee decided to divorce in 1976, when Jacqueline was just eight years old. While the specific reasons for their separation were not extensively publicized, the challenges of maintaining a marriage amidst two high-powered careers in the entertainment and media industries are considerable. Barbara often spoke about the difficulties of balancing her groundbreaking professional ambitions with her desire for a stable family life, a common struggle for many pioneering women of her generation. Despite the end of their marriage, both Barbara and Lee remained committed to co-parenting Jacqueline, ensuring she received love and support from both parents. This period solidified Barbara’s role as a mother, a facet of her identity that she held dear, alongside her public achievements.
Merv Adelson: Twice the Love, Twice the Goodbye
The story of Barbara Walters and Merv Adelson is perhaps the most intriguing chapter in her marital history, marked by not one, but two unions. Merv Adelson, the highly influential CEO of Lorimar Television, was indeed the “lucky” husband to marry Barbara twice. Their initial meeting on a blind date proved exceptionally successful, laying the groundwork for a connection that would endure through marriage and friendship. They first wed in 1981, a period when Barbara’s career was soaring to new heights, having recently joined 20/20, a show where she would solidify her status as a top interviewer.
However, the intense pressures of two demanding careers and the relentless glare of the public spotlight eventually took their toll. Their first marriage ended in divorce in 1984, the very year Barbara landed the coveted co-host spot on 20/20 alongside Hugh Downs. Despite the separation, the bond between Barbara and Merv remained strong, hinting at an unresolved affection and mutual respect. They chose to rekindle their relationship, leading to a second marriage in 1986. This decision reflected a deep hope that their love could overcome the obstacles they had previously faced, a testament to their genuine connection.
Unfortunately, even a second attempt couldn’t withstand the unique challenges that Barbara’s extraordinary life presented. They split again in 1992, marking the final dissolution of their romantic partnership. Yet, Barbara’s sentiments towards Merv remained exceptionally warm and devoid of bitterness. “Merv was a kind and gentle man with a great sense of humor,” Barbara fondly recalled to The New York Times after his passing. “We stayed friends long after our marriage.” This enduring friendship, even after two divorces, speaks volumes about the character of both individuals and the profound respect they shared. It highlights a maturity in their relationship that transcended the conventional failures of marriage, evolving into a lasting platonic bond.
Beyond his association with Barbara Walters, Merv Adelson was a towering figure in his own right, leaving an indelible impact on various industries. As the visionary CEO of Lorimar Television, he was the mogul behind some of television’s most iconic and beloved hit shows, including the heartwarming family drama The Waltons and the iconic prime-time soap opera Dallas. These shows not only garnered immense popularity but also defined an era of television programming, showcasing Adelson’s keen eye for engaging storytelling and successful production. His influence extended far beyond these two blockbusters, as Lorimar became a powerhouse in television production under his leadership.
Merv Adelson’s entrepreneurial spirit wasn’t confined solely to the entertainment industry. He possessed a remarkable foresight, venturing into diverse business landscapes. In 1953, he invested in the innovative concept of a “24-hour market,” pioneering the opening of Market Town just off the vibrant Las Vegas Strip. This ambitious project aimed to cater to the round-the-clock needs of the booming city, demonstrating his willingness to take calculated risks in uncharted territories. His ventures also included a significant partnership with business magnate Irwin Molasky, together opening the prestigious Las Vegas Country Club. This exclusive establishment, funded in part by the infamous mob boss Moe Dalitz, became a hub for the city’s elite and further cemented Adelson’s status as a formidable businessman.
The association with Dalitz, however, brought its own set of controversies. Merv, Molasky, and their associates found themselves scrutinized in the infamous 1963 expose, “The Green Felt Jungle,” which cast a shadow over some of Las Vegas’s early developments and their alleged ties to organized crime. Despite the public scrutiny and implications, Merv Adelson consistently maintained his innocence regarding any illicit involvement. He staunchly insisted to Vanity Fair in a 2013 interview that he was never aware of any mob connections during his time in Las Vegas, portraying himself as a legitimate businessman navigating the complex landscape of a rapidly developing city. His life story, much like Barbara’s, was one of ambition, success, and navigating the often-murky waters of public perception and high-stakes business.
Barbara Walters’ Enduring Legacy
Barbara Walters’ marital history, characterized by three husbands and four marriages, offers a glimpse into the personal life of a woman who was constantly in the public eye. Each relationship, though distinct in its duration and outcome, contributed to her journey and growth, showcasing her human side amidst her larger-than-life professional persona. From her early, brief union with Robert Henry Katz, to her family-building years with Lee Guber and the adoption of their beloved daughter Jacqueline, to the complex, twice-attempted marriage with Merv Adelson, Walters navigated these relationships with a blend of resilience, hope, and an unwavering commitment to her own path.
Ultimately, while her marriages provided companionship and personal experiences, Barbara Walters’ most profound and lasting legacy lies in her unparalleled contributions to journalism and television. She was a pioneer who broke barriers for women in media, a relentless interviewer who held power accountable, and a compassionate storyteller who brought diverse voices to national audiences. Her ability to balance a demanding career with her personal life, facing both triumphs and challenges with grace, cemented her status not just as a television icon, but as a remarkable woman whose influence will continue to resonate for generations. Her story, including the intricacies of her marital journey, serves as a testament to a life lived fully, authentically, and always in the pursuit of truth and connection.