The Rulebreaker

The Rulebreaker by Susan Page is an unflinching and deeply engaging biography of Barbara Walters, the pioneering female broadcaster who redefined television journalism. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Susan Page takes readers on a journey behind the scenes of Walters' legendary career. This expertly crafted biography chronicles Barbara Walters' rise to fame from the early days of television in the 1960s, when the medium was just beginning to captivate American audiences. Walters broke ground not just for women in journalism but also for the industry as a whole. She expanded the boundaries of the television interview, transforming it into an art form and establishing herself as the unrivalled master of the genre. Walters' career was marked by an impressive roster of interviews with some of the most famous and infamous figures in history, from presidents and movie stars to criminals and despots. Her distinctive interview style became the gold standard and her influence on television journalism is immeasurable. At the age of sixty-seven, she reinvented herself yet again by creating and co-hosting the groundbreaking talk show The View, which set a new precedent for women's voices on television. What makes The Rulebreaker particularly compelling is Susan Page's skillful exploration of Walters' personal life and the complex woman behind the public persona. Drawing from 150 interviews and extensive archival research, Page uncovers the emotional and psychological drivers that fuelled Walters' ambition and perseverance. From her tumultuous family life, marked by her father's tragic attempted suicide, to her relentless fear of failure, Walters' personal demons played a significant role in shaping her relentless drive. Page reveals the myriad ways Walters defied conventions and shattered glass ceilings. She battled against a misogynistic culture, demanded opportunities that were previously off-limits to women, and fiercely outmanoeuvred her competitors. Despite maintaining a facade of composed professionalism, Walters' private life, including her complex marriages and love affairs, remained shrouded in mystery—until now. Through insightful and often startling revelations, The Rulebreaker provides an in-depth look at the legacy of a woman who fearedlessly challenged norms and left an indelible mark on television and cultural history. This biography is not only a recounting of Walters' professional achievements but also a poignant exploration of her vulnerabilities and triumphs. In Susan Page's words, Barbara Walters' life story is "stunning" and "brilliantly written," capturing the essence of a trailblazer who changed the landscape of television forever. The Rulebreaker is an essential read for anyone fascinated by the world of broadcast journalism and the extraordinary life of one of its greatest icons.