David Muir was devastated by the death of his long-time friend and colleague, the incomparable Barbara Walters. Her life, at 93, was a tribute to courage, dedication, and unwavering effort that inspired generations of women worldwide.

To pay tribute to her legacy, David posted a moving tribute on Instagram, along with a photo of them having a moment of joy and laughing in each other’s company.

He began his remarks by expressing his deep appreciation for Barbara: “We overuse words like ‘icon,’ ‘legend,’ and ‘trailblazer,’ yet none are more appropriate than when discussing Barbara. She was brave and smart, and even after death, she remains a wonderful source of inspiration.”

“Barbara opened doors for so many people – she transmitted information without fail and will forever be recognized as one of the most iconic individuals in history,” he said. “Barbara – may you rest in peace,” David ended his post.

Deborah Roberts, a well-known ABC journalist, was among the first to express her condolences, adding that it was true. Lara Spencer, a GMA correspondent, said her respect for Barbara Walters and her sadness at her death, “Honored to have worked with her. She was a one-of-a-kind individual, a true legend”.

Barbara Walters’ death has been mourned deeply by her fans on social media. Many people flocked to Twitter to thank her for what she achieved for female journalists and for creating a platform for diverse thought with The View.

“I am grateful that you shared your experiences and ideas on Barbara,” one person said in tribute, while another remarked, “Rest in peace, Barbara Walters. I admired how you reported and asked probing questions. You launched the View, which sparked a lively debate between opposing viewpoints.”

Barbara Walters died quietly at home, surrounded by friends and family, according to Cindi Berger, Barbara’s spokeswoman, in an official statement made Friday evening. “She has no regrets about how she spent her life,” Cindi remarked, “as she achieved amazing accomplishments as a female journalist, opening up new chances for women everywhere.” This statement was shared widely on social media, with many people taking the time to honor the influence and legacy of this remarkable woman.

Barbara Walters has established herself as a trailblazing female journalist and broadcaster. She was the first female co-host of an American news program in 1976 and named the first primetime network news anchor 12 years later. She progressed through the ranks of a male-dominated field to obtain major jobs in television news broadcasting through her hard work and desire.

This accomplishment gained Walters accolades and award nominations, as well as a considerable salary increase that catapulted her to the highest tiers of media superstardom; her yearly income with ABC was projected to reach $1 million in 1988. After nearly two decades in front of the camera, Walters retired in 2014, but not before making a lasting impression on pop culture.

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences honored Walters with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000 for her revolutionary achievements in journalism and television. During her acceptance speech, she showed humble appreciation for everything that had come her way, saying, “I have been so privileged to have been given a life I never expected or ever dreamed imaginable.”