Barbara Walters' Legacy on 'The View': A Complex Reflection

Susan Page, author of "The Rulebreaker: The Life and Times of Barbara Walters," shares insights into what the late legendary broadcaster would think of today's version of "The View," her creation that fostered diverse perspectives and sparked political debate.

The late Barbara Walters, a pioneering figure in journalism, left an indelible mark on the media landscape with her groundbreaking work. As the creator and co-host of the iconic ABC daytime talk show "The View," Walters revolutionized the way news and current events were presented to a diverse audience.

Barbara Walters' Legacy on 'The View': A Complex Reflection

Susan Page, Washington bureau chief for USA Today and author of "The Rulebreaker: The Life and Times of Barbara Walters," recently shared her insights on what Walters would think of "The View" today. According to Page, Walters would have valued the show's continued relevance in politics, as it has become a platform for presidents and candidates to connect with voters.

However, Page also acknowledged the challenges "The View" has faced in representing all points of view, particularly in the Trump era. While Walters believed in fostering diverse perspectives, the show has recently lacked a pro-Trump co-host, prompting criticism from conservatives.

Barbara Walters' Legacy on 'The View': A Complex Reflection

Page emphasized the importance of fairly representing all perspectives, not just on "The View" but across the media landscape. She noted that a significant portion of the American population supports Donald Trump, and it is crucial to understand their views and motivations.

When Walters launched "The View" in 1997, she envisioned a show that would showcase women of different generations and backgrounds, representing a wide range of perspectives. Walters believed that such diversity would generate more engaging and thought-provoking conversations.

Barbara Walters' Legacy on 'The View': A Complex Reflection

In recent years, "The View" has become more politically charged, with the current hosts being outspoken critics of former President Trump. While this has drawn criticism from some viewers, Page believes that Walters would have likely embraced the show's relevance in political discourse.

Throughout her illustrious career, Walters repeatedly broke barriers for women in journalism. She became the first female co-host of NBC's "The Today Show" and later became the highest-paid news anchor ever at ABC News.

Barbara Walters' Legacy on 'The View': A Complex Reflection

Page's biography of Barbara Walters highlights her unwavering determination and trailblazing spirit. Walters' accomplishments have inspired countless women in both broadcast and print journalism, proving that women are capable of achieving the highest levels of success in male-dominated fields.

Barbara Walters' impact on journalism cannot be overstated. Her pioneering work has paved the way for women in the field and set a new standard for news and current events coverage. "The View" continues to embody Walters' vision of diverse voices and thought-provoking conversations, shaping the public discourse and reflecting the complexities of our society.

Walters' legacy as a trailblazing journalist and cultural icon will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Her unwavering determination and commitment to excellence have left an enduring mark on the media landscape and the lives of countless women.