Barbara Walters To Retire Next Year

Barbara Walters, on Monday's edition of The View, will announce that she's retiring from broadcasting in summer 2014, RadarOnline.com has learned.

"I am very happy with my decision and look forward to a wonderful and special year ahead," the 83-year-old Walters said in a statement. "I do not want to appear on another program 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."

ABC said the legendary journalist will continue to serve as executive producer of The View.

"There is only one Barbara Walters," the network's news president, Ben Sherwood, said. "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."

Among Walters' most vaunted accomplishments include creating and hosting The View; anchoring 20/20 for more than 20 years; and presenting her annual 10 Most Fascinating People specials.