Tributes have been pouring in from fans and celebrities around the world after trailblazing news anchor Barbara Walters dies aged 93.
The broadcaster became the first US female network news anchor in 1976 when she joined ABC News.
Not only did she famously interview every US president from Richard Nixon to Donald Trump, but the legend also interviewed huge icons and celebrities, during her incredible career.
Her publicist, Cindi Berger, shared the sad news in a statement on Friday evening, which read:
“Barbara Walters passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones,”
“She lived her life with no regrets. She was a trailblazer not only for female journalists, but for all women.”
Tributes from celebs and fans have been pouring in since the news broke:
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
Senator Chuck Schumer said:
“Barbara Walters was a trailblazing journalist, so many of her interviews were unforgettable. She broke the glass ceiling for so many women and girls.”
Disney’s chief executive Bob Iger said:
“Barbara was a true legend, a pioneer not just for women in journalism but for journalism itself.
“She was a one-of-a-kind reporter who landed many of the most important interviews of our time, from heads of state and leaders of regimes to the biggest celebrities and sports icons.”
Walters was born in 1929 in Boston and won 12 Emmy awards.
She will be missed, RIP.
