Remembering Barbara Walters: A Legacy of Trailblazing Journalism and Enduring Celebrity Tributes
The world of journalism and entertainment collectively mourned the profound loss of an undisputed icon, Barbara Walters, who passed away peacefully at her home on December 30, 2022, at the remarkable age of 93. ABC News confirmed the sad news, noting that Walters, a true pioneer, lived a life without regrets, leaving an indelible mark not only on female journalists but on all women aspiring to break barriers. Her representative conveyed to HollywoodLife that she was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments. Following the announcement, a cascade of heartfelt tributes from prominent figures, including celebrities and esteemed news reporters, flooded social media, highlighting her immense influence and groundbreaking career. Among the first to share their grief were former The View star Meghan McCain, 38, and numerous other former co-hosts of the groundbreaking talk show she famously created.
Barbara Walters was far more than just a news anchor; she was a cultural phenomenon who revolutionized television journalism over five remarkable decades. She shattered countless glass ceilings, most notably becoming the first woman to co-anchor a network evening news program, and later conceived and launched the immensely popular daytime talk show, The View. Her distinctive interview style, characterized by a unique blend of incisive, probing questions and empathetic listening, consistently drew profound insights from a diverse array of guests, ranging from world leaders and politicians to Hollywood celebrities and everyday individuals. This unparalleled ability to connect with her subjects made her interviews legendary and cemented her status as a broadcasting titan and an enduring icon. The heartfelt tributes that poured in after her passing underscore the widespread admiration and deep respect she commanded throughout her career, recognizing her as an inspirational figure who paved the way for generations of aspiring journalists and empowered women across all professions.
Oprah Winfrey Honors Her Mentor and Trailblazer
Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and household name in her own right, has consistently cited Barbara Walters as a pivotal inspiration, and her heartfelt tribute was no exception. “Without Barbara Walters there wouldn’t have been me—nor any other woman you see on evening, morning, and daily news,” Oprah passionately declared via Instagram, accompanying her powerful words with a poignant portrait photo of the two trailblazing women. She elaborated on Barbara’s profound influence, stating, “She was indeed a Trailblazer. I did my very first television audition with her in mind the whole time. Grateful that she was such a powerful and gracious role model. Grateful to have known her. Grateful to have followed in her Light.” Oprah’s words perfectly encapsulate the immense debt many women in media owe to Walters for her pioneering spirit, her unwavering dedication to journalism, and her selfless mentorship.
Diane Sawyer Reflects on a Cherished Colleague and Friend
Fellow ABC news anchor Diane Sawyer, 77, shared a deeply moving tribute for her former colleague, acknowledging Barbara’s pivotal role in “opening the door” for women in broadcast journalism. “Barbara was a trailblazer, a singular force who opened the door for every woman in television news,” the Glasgow, Kentucky native began on Instagram, alongside a cherished photo of them together on the set at ABC News. Sawyer further highlighted their unique professional and personal connection, describing Walters as “also the history maker right down the hall — my friend and road buddy, eager to talk about the news world, the decades of passionate work — the curiosity and laughter that gets us all through.” Her message concluded with a poignant expression of collective sadness and immense gratitude from all who benefited from Barbara’s groundbreaking career: “Sadness. Gratitude. And a salute from all of us who know what we owe her.”
Monica Lewinsky Shares Enduring Personal Anecdotes
Monica Lewinsky, whose life was indelibly marked by her first television interview with Barbara Walters at just 25 years old following the scandal involving former President Bill Clinton, offered a particularly personal and touching tribute. The interview, which aired on March 4, 1999, remains one of the most-watched television interviews in history. Now 49, Lewinsky reflected on their enduring connection. “Sad to lose another icon. Hats off to you Barbara Walters and to all the other amazing people who left us this year,” she wrote via Instagram, also sharing a series of tweets that revealed the depth of their extraordinary relationship.
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Lewinsky recounted their initial meeting during the intense Starr investigation in the spring of 1998, when she was just 24 years old. She confessed to Barbara that it was her first serious trouble, having always been a “good kid” who got good grades and avoided drugs or shoplifting. Barbara’s witty and iconic response, delivered without missing a beat, was: “Monica, next time shoplift.” This anecdote perfectly highlighted Walters’ sharp humor and ability to disarm even in the most serious situations. Monica revealed that they maintained contact over the next 25 years, even meeting for lunch just a few years prior. She remembered Barbara as charming, witty, and always employing her signature, probing interview style. “She was the very first person with whom i ever sat for a television interview… and will certainly be my most memorable,” Monica tweeted, adding, “barbara will be missed by many — including me. sending love to jackie, george + her other friends.” Her tribute emphasized not only Barbara’s professional gravitas but also her unexpected warmth and profound, lasting personal impact on those she interviewed.
– got good grades,
didn’t do drugs, never shoplifted etc. without missing a beat barbara said: monica, next time shoplift.
(2/4)— Monica Lewinsky (she/her) (@MonicaLewinsky) December 31, 2022
“so tell me, monica, how do you feel …etc etc.” she was the very first person with whom i ever sat for a television interview… and will certainly be my most memorable. barbara will be missed by many — including me. sending love to jackie, george + her other friends.#RIPBarbara
— Monica Lewinsky (she/her) (@MonicaLewinsky) December 31, 2022
Paul McCartney Shares a Cherished Family Connection
Paul McCartney, the legendary Beatles icon, took to Facebook to share a deeply personal photo of himself and his wife, Nancy Shevell, 63, with Barbara Walters, revealing a close family bond. “Nancy and I are so saddened by the news of her dear cousin Barbara Walters’ passing. The two of them enjoyed a deep loving relationship over many years and I was proud to share some of those special moments,” the 80-year-old musician wrote on his official page. McCartney’s message underscored Barbara’s remarkable strength and undeniable influence in a historically challenging environment: “Barbara was an amazing woman who more than held her own in the early days of male-dominated television and went on to become a worldwide celebrity known for her many perceptive interviews with stars from every walk of life. We will miss her but always remember her with great fondness. Xx.” This personal insight from such a global figure further illustrates the wide and profound reach of Barbara Walters’ enduring impact.
Robin Roberts: Grateful for a Stellar Example and Friendship
Fellow ABC news anchor and Good Morning America host Robin Roberts shared a heartrending post, expressing profound gratitude for her friend and late colleague. “Barbara Walters was a true trailblazer. Forever grateful for her stellar example and for her friendship. Sending condolences to her daughter and family,” Robin tweeted. Roberts’ message resonated with many who saw Barbara as not just a colleague but a guiding light and a personal friend, demonstrating what was truly possible for women in the challenging and competitive world of news broadcasting.
Barbara Walters was a true trailblazer. Forever grateful for her stellar example and for her friendship. Sending condolences to her daughter and family.🙏🏾 https://t.co/vKjvFJTU6u
— Robin Roberts (@RobinRoberts) December 31, 2022
Deborah Roberts Recalls a Groundbreaking Invitation to 20/20
Deborah Roberts, ABC News Senior National Affairs Correspondent, conveyed her sorrow and honor in a touching social media tribute after Barbara’s passing was confirmed by the network. “So sad to hear of the passing of Barbara Walters,” she penned alongside an old photo of the two women. She continued, “What an honor to share the set @ABC with the inimitable trailblazer when I joined @abc2020. Will never forget the phone call when she asked me to join the groundbreaking program.” This cherished memory highlights Barbara’s active mentorship and her personal role in empowering other talented women in the industry, specifically inviting them to join her groundbreaking endeavors like 20/20, further solidifying her legacy as a champion for female journalists.
So sad to hear of the passing of Barbara Walters. What an honor to share the set @ABC with the inimitable trailblazer when I joined @abc2020. Will never forget the phone call when she asked me to join the groundbreaking program. pic.twitter.com/0zKgKxmayY
— Deborah Roberts (@DebRobertsABC) December 31, 2022
Katie Couric Remembers the “OG of Female Broadcasters” and Her Kindness
Katie Couric affectionately dubbed Barbara Walters the “OG of female broadcasters” in her moving tribute, sharing a cherished personal memory that included a handwritten note from Barbara herself. “Barbara Walters was the OG of female broadcasters. She was just as comfortable interviewing world leaders as she was Oscar winners and her body of work is unparalleled,” Katie wrote on Instagram, accompanying her words with a touching throwback photo of the two legends together. Couric revealed, “I was a lucky recipient of her kindness and encouragement. When I landed a big (impromptu) interview with President Bush, she wrote me a note that I still have framed in my office,” highlighting Walters’ generosity and support for other women in the field.
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The sweet, framed message from 1992, concerning Couric’s interview with President George H. W. Bush and his wife Barbara Bush, read: “‘Dear Katie, You were terrific with Mrs. Bush (you knew far more than she did) and nabbing the President was a real coup. You are so darn good! Bravo! Barbara.'” Couric also noted Barbara’s playfully self-deprecating comparison, saying neither of them was “particularly glamorous,” a comment Katie admitted she never quite knew how to take. However, she concluded with profound gratitude: “But the fact that Barbara saw some of her on me was nothing but a compliment. Thank you for everything, Barbara. #RIP.” This personal anecdote underscores Barbara’s generosity and her lasting impact in lifting up other women in the demanding and often male-dominated field of journalism.
Maria Shriver Highlights Her Mentorship and Pioneering Spirit
Maria Shriver, another prominent journalist, author, and advocate, joined the chorus of heartfelt tributes on Twitter, emphasizing Barbara’s groundbreaking influence. “#BarbaraWalters was a trailblazer. She was a mentor to me as well as a friend. So many women broke into the news business because she did her job well,” Shriver wrote. Her words encapsulate the sentiment felt by countless women who found their path in media made clearer and more accessible thanks to Barbara’s pioneering efforts, her unwavering professionalism, and her commitment to excellence, which set a new standard for all.
#BarbaraWalters was a trailblazer. She was a mentor to me as well as a friend. So many women broke into the news business because she did her job well.
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) December 31, 2022
Tamron Hall: The Blueprint for Modern Journalism
Fellow television personality and talk show host Tamron Hall offered a concise yet powerful tribute that spoke volumes about Barbara’s unparalleled stature in the industry. “The Legend. The Blueprint. The Greatest. Rest in Peace Barbara Walters,” she wrote on Twitter, accompanied by a striking black-and-white portrait of the iconic television personality. Hall’s description highlights Barbara’s foundational role in setting standards of excellence for broadcast journalism and her enduring legacy as a guide and inspiration for all who followed in her footsteps, cementing her status as a true pioneer.
Meghan McCain Appreciates Her Creation of The View and Enduring Legacy
As one of the earliest public reactions to Barbara’s passing on December 30, Meghan McCain, daughter of former U.S. Senator John McCain, shared her profound appreciation for Walters’ career and her personal connection to her work. “Barbara Walters will always be known as a trail blazer. Her hard hitting questions & welcoming demeanor made her a household name and leader in American journalism,” the 38-year-old wrote. McCain specifically acknowledged Walters’ most enduring talk show legacy: “Her creation of The View is something I will always be appreciative of. Rest in peace you will forever be an icon.” This tribute underscores Barbara’s dual impact as both a formidable journalist and a visionary television producer.
Barbara Walters will always be known as a trail blazer. Her hard hitting questions & welcoming demeanor made her a household name and leader in American journalism.
Her creation of The View is something I will always be appreciative of. Rest in peace you will forever be an icon.— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) December 31, 2022
Dan Rather: A Pillar of Professionalism, Courage, and Integrity
Fellow journalism legend Dan Rather shared a deeply thoughtful tribute, highlighting Barbara’s unparalleled contributions to the field. “The world of journalism has lost a pillar of professionalism, courage, and integrity,” the 91-year-old declared. Rather further elaborated on her exceptional drive and impact: “Barbara Walters was a trailblazer and a true pro. She outworked, out-thought, and out-hustled her competitors. She left the world the better for it. She will be deeply missed. RIP.” His poignant words serve as a powerful testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence, her unwavering commitment to ethical reporting, and her lasting influence on the standards of broadcast journalism.
The world of journalism has lost a pillar of professionalism, courage, and integrity. Barbara Walters was a trailblazer and a true pro. She outworked, out-thought, and out-hustled her competitors. She left the world the better for it. She will be deeply missed. RIP
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) December 31, 2022
Don Lemon Remembers Her Captivating Personal Charm
CNN‘s Don Lemon was quick to express his sorrow on social media upon learning of Barbara’s death, emphasizing her captivating presence both on and off screen. “She was obviously amazing on television but I selfishly loved spending time with her in person,” the anchor wrote. He added a touch of personal warmth, noting, “Sitting next to her at a dinner party was the best seat in the house. With love, respect and admiration – rest in peace Barbara Walters.” Lemon’s tribute painted a vivid picture of a woman whose charisma and sharp wit extended far beyond the camera, making every personal interaction memorable and deeply engaging.
She was obviously amazing on television but I selfishly loved spending time with her in person. Sitting next to her at a dinner party was the best seat in the house. With love, respect and admiration – rest in peace Barbara Walters. #barbarawalters pic.twitter.com/AD4BQtHrUg
— Don Lemon (@donlemon) December 31, 2022
Jake Tapper Shares Industry-Wide Condolences
CNN news anchor Jake Tapper, 53, was another notable figure to pay tribute to the late 93-year-old legend. “ABC News: Barbara Walters, trailblazing TV icon, dies at 93. Sending love and prayers to my friends at ABC and to Barbara’s family and friends,” he wrote via Twitter on December 30. Tapper’s message acknowledged the collective loss felt across the entire journalism industry and among countless viewers, as well as those who knew her personally and professionally, underscoring her widespread impact.
ABC News: Barbara Walters, trailblazing TV icon, dies at 93
Sending love and prayers to my friends at ABC and to Barbara’s family and friends https://t.co/33cKvxyFi9
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) December 31, 2022
Rosie O’Donnell: A Simple Yet Powerful “Legend” Tribute
Rosie O’Donnell, who co-hosted The View with Barbara during a memorable, albeit sometimes controversial, eight-month stint from 2006 to 2007, and later returned for another year in 2014, posted a concise yet potent tribute on Instagram after her death. Simply writing “legend” and “#ripbarbarawalters,” O’Donnell’s words perfectly captured the immense respect and admiration she held for her former colleague and the show’s visionary creator. Her brief message spoke volumes, acknowledging Barbara’s iconic status and profound influence without needing lengthy prose, reflecting a widely shared sentiment across the industry.
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Lynda Carter Recalls Her Monumental Impact on Women in TV
Following the news of Barbara’s passing, Wonder Woman star Lynda Carter, 71, took to Twitter to share a video of an interview she had with Barbara many years prior, illustrating their warm rapport. “Barbara Walters was an American institution. As the first female national news anchor, she opened the door to endless possibilities for so many girls who wanted to work in TV, myself included,” her heartfelt tribute read. “Her impact cannot be overstated. I’ll miss you, Barbara. Thank you for everything.” Carter’s message powerfully highlights Barbara’s significant role as a groundbreaking role model. The accompanying clip, where both women shared a laugh as Lynda affectionately referred to Barbara as “my friend” while discussing Lynda’s iconic 1970s outfit, beautifully illustrated the genuine connection and respect they shared.
Barbara Walters was an American institution. As the first female national news anchor, she opened the door to endless possibilities for so many girls who wanted to work in TV, myself included. Her impact cannot be overstated. I’ll miss you, Barbara. Thank you for everything. pic.twitter.com/HokDilM6Rj
— Lynda Carter (@RealLyndaCarter) December 31, 2022
Bernice King: Courage in Difficult Conversations and Trailblazing
Bernice King, 59, daughter of the late Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., also took to Twitter to mourn the profound loss of the great Barbara Walters. “Farewell and rest well, #BarbaraWalters. Thank you for your courage to blaze trails and have difficult conversations that mattered,” she captioned the snapshot of herself with Barbara. King’s tribute powerfully emphasizes Barbara’s bravery and journalistic integrity in tackling sensitive and significant topics throughout her career, a hallmark that earned her widespread respect and cemented her legacy as a fearless interviewer and pioneering journalist.
Joan Lunden Remembers a Generous Trailblazer and Mentor
Former Good Morning America host Joan Lunden, 72, shared a touching throwback snapshot of herself and Barbara in her tribute, reflecting on their shared time and collaboration at ABC for many years. “We have lost a true legend with the passing of Barbara Walters. Such a trail blazer. Such a generous woman – I learned so much from working with her,” she captioned the black-and-white photo. Both Barbara and Joan were integral figures at ABC for many years, and Lunden’s heartfelt words highlight Walters’ immense impact not only as a pioneer who broke barriers but also as a gracious and supportive mentor who generously shared her vast knowledge and invaluable experience with countless colleagues.
The passing of Barbara Walters marks the end of an extraordinary era in broadcast journalism, but her influence remains everlasting. Her fearless spirit, incisive interviewing style, and unwavering commitment to her craft not only shattered countless glass ceilings but also inspired countless individuals to pursue challenging careers in media. From world leaders and political figures to Hollywood stars and cultural icons, her interviews became benchmarks for their depth, candidness, and ability to extract profound insights, showcasing her unique talent to connect with people from all walks of life. The overwhelming outpouring of grief and gratitude from these prominent figures and many more is a powerful testament to her unparalleled legacy and the deep respect she commanded. Barbara Walters will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a mentor, a trusted friend, and an enduring icon whose light continues to guide the path for women in media and inspire excellence in journalism for generations to come. Her impact on television, news, and the empowerment of women is simply immeasurable.