David Muir is crushed by the death of Barbara Walters, who died at 93.
One of the network’s most renowned news anchors recognized the legendary ABC News colleague anchor, who has served as an inspiration to generations of women all across the world.
Following Barbara’s passing, David paid tribute to her on Instagram with a photo of the two laughing and holding hands while out.
“We toss around phrases like idol, legend, trailblazer all the time, but Barbara Walters was all of these – and perhaps most importantly, Barbara Walters was courageous,” he remarked.
“She was a trailblazer for so many others; we acquired wisdom from her, and we remain in awe of her to this day,” David continued. “Rest in peace, Barbara.”
ABC journalist Deborah Roberts was among the first to respond, saying, “That is very right.”
“Honored to have worked beside her,” GMA’s Lara Spencer said, adding that she was “very sad to hear the news. Barbara was a one-of-a-kind individual. #legend”
The following are remarks made by David’s supporters in response to the news: “I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and feelings regarding Barbara. “She was fortunate to have you as a friend and coworker,” one person tweeted, while another added, “Rest in peace, Barbara Walters. I enjoyed both the reporting and the challenging questions. I love how you launched the View by presenting a range of viewpoints and creating lively conversation.”
According to a statement released on Friday by Barbara’s publicist, Cindi Berger, Barbara Walters died peacefully at home, surrounded by family and friends. “She has no regrets about how she spent her life. She blazed the way for other female journalists and all women in general.”
She was the first female primetime network news anchor and the first female co-host of a US news program. She did it by climbing through the ranks of a primarily male-dominated profession.
Her annual compensation with ABC at the time was $1 million, catapulting her to the status of a media superstar. She announced her retirement from performing in 2014.
When the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000, she showed her gratitude by remarking, “I have been granted a life I never expected.”
