Barbara Walters, 74, says she is departing the ABC news magazine show 20/20 after 25 years because she wants to "leave at the top" and avoid being forced out.

"Newsmagazines in general are somewhat in jeopardy, I think," Walters said. "I didn't want anyone to say, she was forced out, she had to leave."

Walters, 74, says she plans to stay in television, continuing her interview specials and appearances on The View. ABC News appointed Elizabeth Vargas to replace her on 20/20.