Who Is Barbara Walters? Age, Biography and Wiki
Barbara Walters was born on September 25, 1929, in Boston, Massachusetts. She was a pioneering American journalist and television personality, renowned for her impactful career that spanned over five decades. Walters broke barriers in the journalism field, becoming the first female co-anchor of a network evening news program and the first woman to host a national primetime news program. Throughout her career, she conducted interviews with some of the most prominent figures in politics and entertainment, solidifying her status as a legendary media figure. Walters passed away on December 30, 2022, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence journalists today.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 25, 1929 |
| Age | 93 Years |
| Birth Place | Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 30 December, 2022 |
| Died Place | New York City, New York, U.S. |
Popularity
Barbara Walters's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While official data regarding Barbara Walters' height and weight may vary, she was reported to be approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall. Throughout her career, Walters maintained a polished appearance, reflecting her professional image. Despite the absence of specific current body stats following her passing, she was known for her grace and poise on-screen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Barbara Walters was married three times to Robert Henry Katz, Lee Guber, and Merv Adelson. She had one daughter, Jackie, and was known for maintaining a close-knit relationship with her family. While dating details are often private, Walters was known to have had significant relationships with several notable figures through her life. Her most publicized relationships were often speculated upon but rarely confirmed by her.
During Walters' childhood, her father managed the Latin Quarter nightclub in Boston, which was owned in partnership with E. M. Loew. In 1942, her father opened the club's now-famous New York location.
He also worked as a Broadway producer and produced the Ziegfeld Follies of 1943; he was also the entertainment director for the Tropicana Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. He imported the Folies Bergère stage show from Paris to the resort's main showroom. Walters' older brother, Burton, was 14 months old when he died of pneumonia.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in late 2022, Barbara Walters' net worth was estimated to be around $170 million, accumulated through her extensive career in journalism, television hosting, and production. Throughout her career, she earned a significant salary, reportedly making up to $12 million annually during her peak, which solidified her status as one of the highest-paid journalists in the industry.
Career, Business and Investments
Barbara Walters began her career in television in the early 1960s and quickly made a name for herself on NBC's "Today" show. She later created "The View," which became a significant platform for discussions on women's issues and pop culture. Walters was a prolific author and produced various special reports and documentaries, showcasing her versatility and commitment to journalism. Moreover, she made wise investments throughout her career, further enhancing her wealth.
Walters began her career at WNBT-TV (NBC's flagship station in New York) in 1953 as writer-producer of a news-and-information program aimed at the juvenile audience, Ask the Camera, hosted by Sandy Becker. She joined the staff of the network's Today show in the early 1960s as a writer and segment producer of women's-interest stories.
Her popularity with viewers led to her receiving more airtime, and in 1974 she became co-host of the program, the first woman to hold such a position on an American news program.
During 1976, she continued to be a pioneer for women in broadcasting while becoming the first American female co-anchor of a network evening news program, alongside Harry Reasoner on the ABC Evening News. Walters was a correspondent, producer and co-host on the ABC newsmagazine 20/20 from 1979 to 2004.
She became known for an annual special aired on ABC, Barbara Walters' 10 Most Fascinating People.
Social Network
In light of her passing in 2022, Barbara Walters' official social media accounts are no longer active. However, her impact continues to resonate on platforms where her interviews and segments are shared, reflecting the profound influence she had on journalism and broadcasting.
Walters was widely lampooned for asking actress Katharine Hepburn, "If you were a tree, what kind would you be?" On the last 20/20 television episode in which she appears, Walters showed a video of the Hepburn interview, showing the actress saying that she felt like a strong tree in her old age.
Walters followed up with the question, "What kind of a tree?", and Hepburn responded "an oak" because they do not get Dutch elm disease. According to Walters, for years Hepburn refused her requests for an interview. When Hepburn finally agreed she said she wanted to meet Walters first.
Walters walked affably, while Hepburn was at the top of the stairs and said, "You're late. Have you brought me chocolates?"
Education
Barbara Walters graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in 1951 with a bachelor's degree in English. Her education played a crucial role in shaping her eloquent communication style and analytical skills, which distinguished her throughout her groundbreaking career in journalism.
In 2025, Barbara Walters remains a celebrated figure in journalism, remembered for her groundbreaking contributions, inspirational interviews, and charismatic presence in the media landscape. Her legacy undoubtedly continues to inspire aspiring journalists around the world.
