Barbara Walters

In October 1961, Barbara Walters joined the NBC's Today show as a writer and researcher. Her talent and skills soon led her to take on more on-camera responsibilities. Walters' presence on the Today show was groundbreaking at the time, as women were rarely given prominent roles on television. Her early contributions laid the groundwork for her future success in broadcast journalism.

On October 4, 1974, Barbara Walters made history by becoming the first female co-host of the Today show. This was a significant milestone in her career and for women in journalism, as it broke new ground in a field that was predominantly male. Walters' work on the Today show was highly influential, setting the stage for her future achievements in television journalism.

On April 22, 1976, Barbara Walters signed a five-year contract with ABC News for $1 million annually, becoming the first female co-anchor of a network evening news program. Her move to ABC was highly publicized and marked a major shift in broadcast journalism, challenging the conventions of the time. Walters' presence on ABC News established her as a pioneering figure in television news.

In November 1979, Barbara Walters joined ABC's news magazine 20/20 as a correspondent. Her insightful interviews and contributions helped establish the program as a staple of American news television. Walters continued to work with 20/20 well into the 21st century, conducting high-profile interviews and bringing important stories to the forefront of public awareness.

On September 25, 1984, the first Barbara Walters Special aired on ABC, featuring exclusive interviews with high-profile figures. Walters' specials became known for their in-depth and personal approach, offering viewers unique insights into the lives of public personalities. These specials were a testament to Walters' skills as an interviewer and her ability to draw out candid responses from her subjects.

On August 11, 1997, Barbara Walters created and co-hosted The View, a daytime talk show that featured a panel of women discussing various topics, including politics, social issues, and entertainment. The show was innovative in its format and became widely popular, showcasing Walters' ability to engage audiences with diverse and dynamic discussions. The View remains a significant part of Walters' legacy.

On May 21, 2004, Barbara Walters officially retired from her role as a co-host and contributor on ABC's 20/20. Her retirement from the program marked the end of an era in which she delivered incisive reporting and memorable interviews. Walters' contributions to 20/20 were instrumental to the show's success and she remained an influential figure in journalism beyond her retirement.

On May 16, 2014, Barbara Walters made her final appearance on The View, retiring from the show she created and had co-hosted for 17 years. Her departure was marked by tributes celebrating her groundbreaking work in television. Walters' retirement from The View was seen as the close of a remarkable chapter in television history, as she had been a trailblazer and mentor to many women in broadcasting.

On December 7, 2015, ABC aired a two-hour special titled Barbara Walters: Her Story, celebrating her career and contributions to journalism. The special highlighted her most memorable interviews and her influence on the field of television news. Walters' ability to secure and conduct high-profile interviews was a testament to her skill and tenacity as a journalist, cementing her legacy in broadcast history.

Starting around January 2019, Barbara Walters has been seen in public sparingly, with reports indicating she is facing health issues. Despite her absence from the public eye, her impact on journalism and media remains profound. Walters' influence continues to be celebrated by colleagues and audiences alike, acknowledging her as one of the most important figures in the history of television broadcasting.