Barbara Walters Retiring?

Update:

Barbara said the following on today’s “The View”

There were many reports last week that I was retiring from ABC and there was an assumption that I would be making an announcement today. The paparazzi were outside my home today… however, here I am, and I have no announcement to make. But I do want to say this: that if and when I might have an announcement to make, I will do it on this program, I promise, and the paparazzi guys — you will be the last to know.

The 83-year-old journalist is finally setting a date for her retirement. Reports coming out last week claim that she plans to retire from broadcasting in May of 2014, which is just about a year from now. The news is not all that surprising when you consider her age and her recent health scares. You may remember she had heart surgery back in 2010, and just recently she had that scare with a case of chicken pox and she suffered a concussion. Barbara has always been one to laugh off retirement reports, but it appears that this time the reports are true.

Over the next year you can bet there will be tons of Barbara Walters specials, tributes and lots of ass kissing going on, so don’t say we didn’t warn you! ABC is planning on announcing her retirement in May for that exact reason. They want to have a full year to pay tribute to the great Barbara Walters because apparently that is just how long it takes to say goodbye to someone. I don’t know about you, but whenever my relatives leave the house after Thanksgiving dinner, I don’t even get up to walk them to their car. I pack them with leftovers and say, “See you next year!”

Anyway, here is a little history on Barbara Walters for those of you who actually care. Her broadcasting career started way back in 1961 when she was a reporter and panel member on NBC’s “Today Show.” she was eventually moved up to co-host in 1974, but then left two years later to start her journey with ABC.

An interesting little fact? Walters has interviewed every U.S. President and first lady since Richard and Pat Nixon. I am willing to bet that is something a lot of people can’t say! Walters is also the one who created the show, “The View” you know, the show where a group of ladies sit by each other and see who can sound the most ridiculous? I love that show.

We’ll miss you, Barbara!