Barbara Walters, a revered broadcast journalist who pioneered so many women in journalism, has died at the age of 93. Walters was a big name in the news industry who spent decades in the spotlight interviewing some of the biggest names in the world. She was an inspiration to many of her, so it’s no surprise that soon after her death was announced, notable names like Oprah Winfrey, Sherri Shepherd and many more paid their respects.
Shortly after a rep for Barbara Walters confirmed that the reporter died at her home surrounded by friends and family, celebrities began paying tribute to the reporter and the legacy she left behind. Oprah Winfrey, another icon and journalist with many impressive accolades, said on Instagram that a pioneer like Walters made possible the success she has celebrated to date:
Actress and former co-host of View Sherri Shepherd also shared that she owed her success to Barbara Walters, but she also had a more personal experience with the late reporter. Shepherd called Walters a “mother lion” who often stood up for her and her co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck, someone fans know Walters has clashed with at times. She also wrote that Walters was also a great mentor when she was tough:
Another of Barbara Walters’ former colleagues a View, Star Jones, paid tribute to the woman he considered a friend. Jones, who was a founding member of View Along with Walters, Debbie Matenopoulos, Meredith Vieira and Joy Behar, she noted that she owes a lot to her friend:
I owe Barbara Walters more than I could ever repay. Rest well sister…mother…friend…colleague…mentor.31 December 2022
Many prominent journalists have also shared their thoughts on the loss of Barbara Walters, such as ABC world news tonight still and 20/20 co-host David Muir. The host noted some of the strong adjectives the world uses to describe Walters and reminded everyone that all of these adjectives are valid:
ABC hello America host Robin Roberts also paid tribute to Barbara Walters and spoke of her kindness. Roberts recalls a time the two spoke at an event and how quickly Walters responded when he sent her a gift:
Dan Rather spoke about the impact Barbara Walters had on the world of journalism and how she worked hard to earn her position in the industry. Maybe he put it best when he said she Walters left the world better after a long and famous career.
The world of journalism has lost a pillar of professionalism, courage and integrity. Barbara Walters was a pioneer and a true professional. She outdid herself, thought things through, and pushed her competitors. She left the better world for this. She will be deeply missed. RIP31 December 2022
CNN host and frequent New Year’s Eve correspondent Don Lemon shared a more personal tribute to Barbara Walters, perhaps aware that many would praise her impact and praise throughout her career. Lemon, for her part, spoke of the pleasure she took in being present at dinner parties and enjoying her company:
These are just a few of the many tributes paid to Barbara Walters across the internet, and one can imagine the coming days will bring more tributes from her former colleagues, notable celebrities, and possibly even former presidents that she has interviewed. The celebration of Walters’ life will continue and further recognize the tremendous impact she left not only on journalism, but the world at large.
24 News Bulletin would like to offer our condolences to Barbara Walters’ family and friends and we wish them all the best during this time. We hope there will be more celebrations of her legacy in the new year and more people will be inspired to do great things after seeing her work.
Source: Cinemablend
