Cheri Oteri Breaks Out Her Barbara Walters Impression In Sweet Tribute—And It's Still Spot On

On Friday, journalism icon and trailblazer Barbara Walters died at the age of 93, and people all over the world have been paying tribute to the legend.

Saturday Night Live alum Cheri Oteri joined Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen on CNN's New Year's Eve coverage and reprised her renowned impression of Barbara Walters as she emotionally paid tribute to the woman who Oteri described as "such a part of the fabric of [her] childhood."

Oteri shared:

"For every newsworthy memory, she was there."

Of being asked by SNLto portray Walters, she revealed:

"I was like, 'Oh, my God, this is such a big responsibility.'"

"I didn't want to do it, but then I was like, 'Wait a second. That would be such an honor.'"

"So I studied her like I never studied somebody before."

Oteri said that Walters even asked how she was able to imitate her.

"Then to have her blessing and be on 'The View,' I was just in awe."

"She broke every journalistic barrier for women, and here she is asking me, 'Cheri, how do you do me?'"

Oteri's studies led her to the flawless execution of her role as the icon:

"Usually, Barbara, when you do an interview, you usually give three compliments and then go in for the kill."

Oteri proceeded to demonstrate by impersonating Walters.

"You're a 'New York Times' best-selling author, you're an accomplished and celebrated concert pianist, and a three time Academy Award winning actor."

And then for the kill:

"Why the porn?"

You can check it out below.

Viewers of the bit loved Oteri's reprisal and tribute to the late Walters.

Of the tribute Oteri said:

"I am still so sad of Barbara's passing."

"It was a shock, but it warms my heart that I got to honor her with @andersoncooper and @Andy."

"She was my hero."

We think Oteri's tribute was just perfect.