[More in the cross-post on the MRC's NewsBusters blog.]
Barbara Walters gushed over Hillary Clinton, who made a surprise appearance on the ABC personality's last episode of The View on 16 May 2014. Walters wasted little time before exclaiming to Clinton, "Why don't you just take my place on the show?" The host later exalted the former first lady as "someone we admire – and, for me, it's more than admiration – it's very deep affection."
Co-host Sherri Shepherd pointed out that Clinton has been on Walters' "most fascinating" list more than any other person. The retiring View host repeatedly used this label through out the segment, which last just over six and half minutes:
SHERRI SHEPHERD: What an honor to have you here, Hillary, because you've been on Barbara's 'Most Fascinating People' specials-
WALTERS: I don't call her by her first name-
SHEPHERD: But I – but I-
CLINTON: Hillary is fine; Hillary is fine-
SHEPHERD: Okay – oh my gosh! But, you know, you've been on the air more than anybody else, which is four times (unintelligible), Barbara. And you were the only person to be at the top of her list more than one time. So, can you please tell us, what do you remember most about Barbara?
CLINTON: Well, I want to start by – by saying, I can't believe this day has come, and I can't believe it's for real-
MCCARTHY (off-camera): Right-
CLINTON: Because I don't know what we're all going to do without seeing you going one place or another – asking questions we'd all like to ask. The 'fascinating' list has always been – you know, a particular interest of mine – and then, to be on it was an incredible honor.
WALTERS: Well, you were our most fascinating. And you're right, I feel like calling her Hillary. (Clinton and Shepherd laugh) I think you've been on our 'most fascinating' list more than anyone, and – and you were THE most fascinating. So, sit here and be fascinating! (audience laughs)
CLINTON: Okay. All right, I'll try. I'll put – I'll put on my fascinating look.