A Barbara Walters Career Comeback Isn't Likely, Friend Says

Say it ain’t so! Barbara Walters is one of the most memorable and phenomenal TV journalists of all time, and after her retirement in 2014, she’s doing better than ever today — but don’t expect the 88-year-old to make a TV comeback anytime soon.

Even though she still “watches news voraciously,” a friend told Closer Weekly in a new exclusive interview that she’s not necessarily ready to make a guest appearance on television again. “She’s lived a long, outrageously successful and productive life,” the friend shared. “She’s content with her legacy, even now that it is away from the spotlight.”

Barbara has had quite the impressive career starring on a plethora of popular series (“She’s most proud of the fact she was a trailblazer for women in the workplace,” another insider once told Closer. “She went where no woman went before in journalism and TV.”) “She was the first woman co-anchor of the evening news, the first woman co-anchor of morning news and 20/20,” her friend explained. “She had her own programs like The View that she developed and starred in, and more.”

But these days, Barbara — who had open heart surgery in 2010 and suffered a fall in 2013 — is using her spare time to focus on her health. “She goes to doctor’s appointments, physical therapy,” the friend told Closer, adding that “she has trouble walking.”

Barbara Walters 'The View' — Getty Images

Even though Barbara doesn’t get out as much these days because of it, she “still loves life.” When looking back on the past eight decades, Barbara has opened up about the fundamental truths she’s learned: “That you’ve got to have someone you love,” she’s said. “You’ve got to have a reason to get up in the morning.” Between her successful career, daughter, and close friends, Barbara has also gushed that she “considers herself blessed.” We’re going to miss you in the spotlight, Barb!

For more on Barbara, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now — and be sure to sign up for our newsletter for more exclusive news!

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