Biography
Barbara Jill Walters (born September 25, 1929), or simply Barbara Walters to many, is a giant in American radio and television journalism. Over a career spanning decades, she has become a household name, known for her exceptional interviewing skills and the way she effortlessly captivates her audience.
From her early days on shows like Today to her later roles on ABC Evening News20/20, and OpinionWalters is a familiar face on screens across America. Her ability to connect with people and ask tough questions has helped her stand out in the industry.
Throughout her journey, Barbara Walters didn’t just report the news; she became part of the news, shaping the way it was told and leaving a lasting legacy in broadcast journalism.
American journalist and broadcaster
Barbara Walters |
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 Barbara Walters: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Full name: | Barbara Jill Walters |
| Stage name: | Barbara Walters |
| Born: | September 25, 1929 (age 93) |
| Place of birth: | Boston, Massachusetts, United States |
| Deceased: | December 30, 2022 (age 93), Manhattan, New York, United States |
| Nationality: | American |
| Education: | Lawrence School |
| Height: | 1.65 meters |
| Parents: | Lou Walters and Dena Seletsky |
| Siblings: | Jacqueline Walters, Burton Walters, Walda Walters Anderson |
| Couple: | Merv Adelson (married 1986–1992), Robert Henry Katz (married 1955–1957), Lee Guber (married 1963–1976), Merv Adelson (married 1981–1984) |
| Boyfriend • Partner: | Edward Brooke (1974-1977), Roy Cohn, Henry Kissinger |
| The children: | Jacqueline Dena Guber |
| Job: | Announcer • Journalist |
| Net worth: | $170 million (USD) |
Early life and education
Barbara Walters, an American journalist and television personality, was born in Massachusetts on September 25, 1929. She was raised by her parents, Lou Walters and Dena Seletsky, and three siblings, Jacqueline Walters, Burton Walters, and Walda Walters Anderson.
Barbara Walters attended many schools during her childhood due to her family’s frequent moves. Her education began at Lawrence School in Brookline, Massachusetts.
Career
In 1961, Barbara Walters began her remarkable journey at NBC “Today” program, initially as a writer. With her sharp intellect, witty one-liners, and undeniable charm, she quickly won over the audience, leading to her promotion to co-host in 1974.
The momentous occasion marked a groundbreaking achievement: Walters became the first woman to co-anchor a network morning news program. Her elevation paved the way for aspiring female journalists and inspired future generations.
In 1976, Barbara Walters continued to break barriers when she became the network’s first evening news co-anchor, a role she held until 1978. She later hosted “20/20” from 1979 to 2004, conducting memorable interviews with a wide range of individuals, from world leaders to celebrities.
In 1997, Barbara Walters ventured into daytime television, co-creating and co-hosting the iconic talk show, Opinionuntil her departure in 2014. Throughout her career, Walters’ impact on the media landscape was undeniable, cementing her legacy as a pioneer in journalism and a role model for women in the industry.
Awards & Nominations
- 1975 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host (Today)
- Primetime Emmy Awards 1982, 1983 for Outstanding Special Information Program
- 1983 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Informational Series
- Lucy Award for Women in Film 1983
- GLAAD Media Excellence Award 1986
- 1989 Television Hall of Fame
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – 2007
- OFTA TV Hall of Fame – 2010
Social media
- Twitter: @BarbaraJWalters
Personal life
Barbara Walters was married to three different men during her lifetime, with Merv Adelson being her partner twice. Her marriages included Merv Adelson from 1986 to 1992, Lee Guber from 1963 to 1976, and Robert Henry Katz from 1952 to 1958. During her marriage to Lee Guber, she welcomed a daughter, Jacqueline Dena Guber, through adoption. Known for her unwavering support for women’s rights, Walters remained a lifelong Democrat.
In addition to her marriages, Walters had romantic relationships with Edward Brooke, Roy Cohn, and Henry Kissinger from 1974 to 1977.
Cause of death
On December 30, 2022, Barbara Walters passed away peacefully at the age of 93 at her home in Manhattan, New York City. Although the exact cause of death was not initially disclosed, her representative confirmed her peaceful passing.
Net worth
Barbara Walters, a famous American radio journalist and television personality, amassed a considerable net worth of $170 million before her death in 2022.
Throughout her illustrious career, she revolutionised broadcast journalism, breaking gender barriers and establishing herself as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in the field. Walters’ remarkable achievements and contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry, cementing her status as an iconic pioneer in broadcasting.
