Barbara Walters to Host Final Oscar Night Special

Barbara Walters' Oscar special next month will be her last, ending a 29-year run.
"ABC has asked me to keep doing these specials as they have been so successful — and I'm thrilled we have such great stars and have such a wonderful show. But to be honest, I feel like I've 'been there, done that,'" she said on Monday's The View.

Her final special will feature best actress nominee Sandra Bullock (The Blind Side) and best supporting actress nominee Mo'Nique (Precious), along with a retrospective of past specials.

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The annual program started in 1981, featuring interviews with Brooke Shields and her mother, Teri, country singer Loretta Lynn, Dallas actress Linda Gray, Ringo Starr and model/actress Barbara Bach, Walters' specials have been a staple of ABC's Oscar night coverage.

 "When we first started this special, I don't think any of us knew exactly how much of an Oscar night staple it would become," Walters said.

Over the years, her interview subjects have included Catherine Zeta Jones, Sarah Jessica Parker, Tom Cruise, Ben Stiller, John Travolta, Mike Myers, Michael Douglas, George Clooney, Mariah Carey, Faith Hill, Bette Davis, Elizabeth Taylor, Oprah Winfrey, Shirley MacLaine, Sophia Loren, Anthony Hopkins and Michelle Pfeiffer.

 "This special has been a labor of love for 29 years. I will always remember when Hugh Jackman gave me a private lap dance, or sitting down with the legendary Bette Davis, or being taught to tango by Al Pacino," said Walters. "It's those priceless moments that have made this special the Oscar tradition that it has become, but I truly feel enough is enough."

The final Oscar night edition of The Barbara Walters Special airs March 7 at 7/6c.