Barbara Walters’ name needs no introduction to both the old and new generations. The 92-year-old is one of the most renowned American broadcasters of all time. Walters is a famous journalist loved for her beauty and daring personality. Her sense of humor and looks often pitched her with some of the leading men in Hollywood. However, some of such romances were never meant to be.
A DECORATED AND VENERABLE JOURNALIST
While the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King are popular with the modern generation, they all learned a thing or two from Walters, who was one of the pioneers of modern American journalism.
Walters spent over a decade on the “Today Show,” during which she made it one of the most-watched American shows. She was also the first female anchor of an evening news program.
Walters sealed her place as a classy journalist throughout the ’60s and ’70s, making her mark with her unique interview style while working on both NBC’s “Today Show” and ABC’s “20/20.”
The iconic broadcaster rose through the ranks to become one of the leading figures in journalism. Shortly after graduating from Sarah Lawrence College in 1953 with a bachelor’s degree in English, Walters worked with Republican activist Tex McCary of WRCA-TV.
It was there she learned the ropes of the industry. Despite her skills and potential, Walters’ career almost ended before it began.
The retired broadcaster revealed that she once thought her career was over in the ’70s after flopping as an anchorwoman. At the time, she partnered with Harry Reasoner.
The renowned writer was taken off the news show and put back into reporting. Although this was largely seen as a demotion, Walters used it as fuel, put in the work, and earned a place at the top.
The “The View” host went on to win a series of awards and accolades after the early disappointment, including the President’s Award.
In addition, Walters was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 1990. But, despite all her achievements, the former “Today” host passed up one of the most significant opportunities that came her way.
CROSSING PATHS WITH THE LADIES-MAN CLINT EASTWOOD
Clint is undoubtedly one of the biggest flirts in the industry. However, his excellent acting skills precede any other titles or popularity he received because of his affiliations with multiple women.
Clint has dated some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Maggie Johnson, Dina Eastwood, Christina Sandera, Roxanne Tunis, Sondra Locke, Jacelyn Reeves, and Frances Fisher. The actor famously broke the hearts of some ladies but was unable to win some.
Walters was one of the women Clint could not add to his list of conquered women. However, the two shared a little history, but a romance seemed unachievable.
Walters once opened up on her story with Clint. The duo met after the “Today” show host interviewed Clint. Soon, it looked like there was about to be another love story, but things took a quick twist.
THE ONE WHO GOT AWAY
The “20/20” host confessed that she declined an opportunity for a romantic relationship with Clint. According to the journalist, the Hollywood star was flirtatious and charming. She said, “He was very flirtatious, and I was very taken (with him).”
After their interview, Clint made a move and asked Walters out for dinner, but she opted to maintain professionalism. Recalling the moment, she said:
“He asked me if I wanted to have dinner … and I said, ‘No, I have to work.’ You know, I don’t mix business with pleasure.”
Walters confessed that she regretted giving up the opportunity. The duo married different people and met many years later at the premiere of Clint’s movie “Jersey Boys.” Walters tried to make up for lost opportunities.
The iconic interviewer said she dressed to impress the Hollywood icon but surprisingly, he was courteous, unlike their first encounter. Walters had to live with the knowledge that she walked away first.