News media and entertainment figures have been paying tribute to the late Barbara Walters, who passed away at the age of 93 on Friday evening. Walters, a pioneering TV journalist known for her interviews and her work on "The View," was remembered by her colleagues and peers as a trailblazer and pioneer in the industry.
Disney CEO Bob Iger was among the first to share the news on Twitter, stating, "I have sad news to share today. Barbara Walters passed away this evening at her home in New York." Oprah Winfrey, who credits Walters as a role model and inspiration, shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, "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. Grateful to have known her. Grateful to have followed in her Light."
Former "The View" host Meghan McCain praised Walters for her "hard hitting questions & welcoming demeanor," while actor Lynda Carter credited Walters for "open[ing] the door to endless possibilities for so many girls who wanted to work in TV." Jake Tapper and Deborah Roberts, Walters' colleague on "20/20," also shared their condolences and memories of working with the legendary journalist.
