20/20

In celebration of her milestone 65th birthday, Elizabeth sat down with 20/20’s Barbara Walters to reflect on her incredible life and career. The interview was filmed just two days before Elizabeth learned she had a benign brain tumor and, as Barbara says, “everything she told me seems to have new meaning.”

Elizabeth was joined for the interview by her beloved Maltese, Sugar. “Is this the current love of your life?” Barbara asked, gesturing to Sugar, quietly poised on her lap. “This is the love of my life,” responded Elizabeth. “For five years, my constant companion. She’s had a few tears shed on her shoulder.”

Elizabeth’s dear friend Roddy McDowall was also interviewed for the profile. When asked about the public’s enduring fascination with her, Roddy explained: “There’s been so much agony in the life and so much glory. She’s become a part of our family. That happens with certain people whose careers are so enduring. It’s very warming to know they’re there and to be able to care about them.”

“I use my fame, now, when I want to help a cause or do things for other people,” Elizabeth explained.