A trailblazer in television journalism, Barbara Walters, died on December 30, 2022, but her legacy and impact will live on. In 1961, Walters began her career on NBC’s “Today” show, later became co-host in 1974, and in 1976, became the first female anchor on an evening news program for ABC News. 

Known for her intimate, no-nonsense interviewing style, Walters has faced criticism over the years and in response said: “If it’s a woman, it’s caustic; if it’s a man, it’s authoritative. If it’s a woman it’s too pushy, if it’s a man it’s aggressive in the best sense of the word.” Throughout her life, Walters interviewed public figures such as Fidel Castro, Barbra Streisand, Michael Jackson, every U.S. president and first lady from the Nixons to the Obamas, and various other politicians and celebrities. She has received 33 Daytime Emmy Awards, 19 News and Documentary Emmy Awards, and Primetime Emmy nominations. 

Walters also hosted “The Barbara Walters Specials” and “10 Most Fascinating People” and co-hosted and was chief correspondent for ABC’s “20/20”. Additionally, Walters co-hosted and produced “The View” — a show to give women the opportunity to discuss the latest news headlines. 

Regarding her legacy, Walters once said: “If I have a legacy, and I’ve said this before and I mean it so sincerely, I hope that I played a small role in paving the way for so many of you fabulous women.”