On March 3, 1999, a significant chapter in television history unfolded as ABC aired an exclusive two-hour interview with Monica Lewinsky, conducted by the esteemed Barbara Walters. This interview, marking the first time Lewinsky publicly discussed her affair with then-President Bill Clinton, captured the attention of the nation and has since been acknowledged as the highest-rated episode in the history of the programme “20/20.”
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The affair, which began while Lewinsky was a White House intern, became a focal point of a political scandal that ultimately led to impeachment proceedings against Clinton. During the interview, Lewinsky provided candid insight into her experiences, expressing a complex mix of emotions regarding the relationship. When asked if she would make the same choices again, Lewinsky reflected, “There are some days that I regret that the relationship ever started and there are some days that I just regret that I ever confided in Linda Tripp.” The latter remark referred to her confidante who recorded their conversations and played a crucial role in publicising the affair.
In a notable moment during the broadcast, Lewinsky extended a public apology to both Hillary and Chelsea Clinton. She conveyed her regret, stating, “I wouldn’t dream of asking Chelsea and Mrs. Clinton to forgive me, but I would ask them to know that I am very sorry for what happened and for what they’ve been through.” This expression of remorse added a layer of personal reflection to a scandal that was otherwise heavily scrutinised and sensationalised by the media.
The magnitude of the interview was reinforced by its viewership; approximately 70 million people across the United States either watched or tuned in to parts of the programme, representing nearly half of all television sets in use at that time. The New York Times highlighted that no single-network news programme had garnered such a vast audience, nor was any such show believed to have generated as much revenue for its network.
Barbara Walters, a legendary figure in journalism, passed away on December 30, 2022, at the age of 93. Following her death, Lewinsky shared a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on their long-standing relationship that began during the height of the Lewinsky scandal. In her message, Lewinsky recounted their initial meeting amidst the turmoil of the investigation by Kenneth Starr, stating, “This was the first time I’d ever been in serious trouble. We stayed in touch over the past 25 years.”
Lewinsky fondly remembered her encounters with Walters, noting her charm, wit, and the hallmark style of her interviews. She remarked, “Barbara will be missed by many — including me.” This sentiment encapsulated the profound impact Walters had on those she interviewed, as well as the lasting legacy she left behind in journalism.
Nearly three decades removed from the explosive interview, “20/20” continues to resonate with audiences today. The programme commenced its 49th season with well-known anchors David Muir and Deborah Roberts leading a series of reports that delve into true crime stories, exclusive interviews, and intensive investigations. The premiere episode, titled “The Salem Strangler,” recounts the 1986 murder of Claire Gravel, shedding new light on a case that had gone cold for decades.
The episode outlines how a similar attack in 2007 reignited interest in Gravel’s case and ultimately led to breakthroughs in the investigation. Roberts’ detailed reporting includes interviews with Gravel’s family, the survivor of the 2007 attack, and law enforcement officials who played a role in advancing the case.
With a reputation for producing compelling content, “20/20” has consistently ranked as the leading news magazine on Friday evenings for four consecutive years as of the 2025-2026 season, according to ABC News. The programme airs weekly at 9 p.m. ET and is also accessible on various streaming platforms, including ABC News digital outlets, Disney+, and Hulu.
As it embarks on another season filled with gripping stories, the legacy of Barbara Walters remains significantly tied to “20/20”, serving as a reminder of the impact one interview can have on public discourse and the course of history.