Barbara Walters is to retire.
The US chat show veteran has decided to end her phenomenal TV career in 2014 and is expected to officially announce her departure from screens today (13.05.13) on 'The View' - the all-female talk show she created in 1997.
She said in a statement: "I am very happy with my decision and look forward to a wonderful and special year ahead both on 'The View' and with ABC News.
"I created 'The View' and am delighted it will last beyond my leaving it. I do not want to appear on another programme or climb another mountain.
"I want instead to sit on a sunny field and admire the very gifted women - and, OK, some men, too - who will be taking my place.''
The 83-year-old star - who will continue to serve as executive producer of 'The View' - began her career in 1961 and has spent five decades at the forefront of television.
She co-hosted NBC's morning news programme, 'The Today Show', for 15 years before moving over to ABC to co-host the 'Evening News'.
Ben Sherwood, ABC News President, said: "There is only one Barbara Walters. We look forward to making her final year on television as remarkable, path-breaking and news-making as Barbara herself.
"We look forward to a year befitting her brilliant career filled with exclusive interviews, great adventures and indelible memories."
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