Cristal Vega ‘25
Barbara Walters, a well-known and loved journalist, has passed away in her Manhattan home. Millions are mourning after hearing this American icon has passed.
Barbara Walters graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in 1951 with a Bachelor's degree in English and had brief employment in an advertising agency. She then went on to become assistant to the publicity director for NYC’s NBC-affiliated TV station. Here she learned the knick-knacks of writing and producing.
In 1961, she became a writer for the NBC morning show Today. This helped her advance in her career and led her to later be hired as the “Today Girl.” She then took that opportunity to grow her career amongst her co-workers and soon became a well-respected TV personality. In 1974, she became co-host along with Hugh Downs, becoming the first female anchor. She was an outstanding journalist until she retired at the age of 85. Talk about commitment!
Walters also won an Emmy Award and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1999. In addition, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000, and above all a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2007. During Barbara Walters’s lifetime, she achieved so much, which is why fans across the USA were distraught by her death.
“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,” said “Wonder Woman” Lynda Carter on Twitter.
Barbara Walters lived a long, successful life and died surrounded by friends and family. She was loved for blazing the path for many other women in the industry. She was a remarkable presence in the industry who will not be forgotten.
“Without Barbara Walters, there wouldn’t have been me—nor any other woman you see on evening, morning, and daily news. 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,” said Oprah on Instagram.
Barbara Walters was an inspiring figure who influenced many. It’s amazing how much she accomplished in her life.
Comments