Sir Paul McCartney has said he is ‘so saddened’ by the death of Barbara Walters.
The US TV icon and veteran journalist died this week at the age of 93, with her representative confirming she did so ‘peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones.’
Tributes have poured in for the trailblazing journalist, who in 1976 became the first-ever female network news anchor, paving the way for women in the industry for years to come.
The likes of Oprah Winfrey shared their gratitude to Walters as the news broke, saying without her she wouldn’t be where she is today.
Now Beatles legend Sir Paul has shared his heartache at her death, having known her well through his wife Nancy Shevell, who was her cousin.
The musician took to Instagram on New Year’s Eve to recall his fond memories with the broadcaster, along with a photo of he and Nancy cuddling up with her.
He wrote: ‘Nancy and I are so saddened by the news of her dear cousin Barbara Walters’ passing.
‘The two of them enjoyed a deep loving relationship over many years and I was proud to share some of those special moments.’
He recalled Walters as ‘an amazing woman who more than held her own in the early days of male-dominated television and went on to become a worldwide celebrity known for her many perceptive interviews with stars from every walk of life.’
‘We will miss her but always remember her with great fondness,’ he concluded.
Hundreds flocked to the comments to offer their condolences to Sir Paul and Shevell, with many also paying tribute to the trailblazing journalist.
Her representative, Cindi Berger, also recalled her extraordinary life and career when announcing the news of her death on Saturday.
‘Barbara Walters passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones. She lived a big life,’ she said.
‘She lived her life with no regrets. She was a trailblazer not only for female journalists, but for all women.’
The sentiment was echoed by legendary talk show host Winfrey.
‘Without Barbara Walters there wouldn’t have been me – nor any other woman you see on evening, morning, and daily news,’ she wrote on Instagram.
‘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.’
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