“Betty White was an American treasure, an icon and a pioneer, and she challenged conventions,” Biden said. “With every laugh and smile, she opened our hearts. But above all, she moved our souls and the soul of our nation.”

White’s television career spanned more than 70 years. During that time she starred in three successful sitcoms, won five Emmys and made countless guest appearances. Celebrities and collaboraters lauded both her talent and her personality. Tracy Morgan, who worked with White on 30 Rock, compared her to one of the biggest stars in the NBA.

“I've worked with a lot of people in my career,” Morgan said,“Betty White was the LeBron James of comedy. She's scoring.”

Ellen DeGeneres shared her admiration for White's seven-decade career. “She clearly inspired me and influenced me because she was a really successful funny woman, and from the time I was a little kid until just now,” DeGeneres said.

Cher talked at length about her friend. “She meant so much to me and to everyone she ever met or who ever watched her on TV. She was a true American icon. But what really stood out about her is she was exactly who we all want in a friend — warm, caring, authentic, and always fun.”

By the end of the special, it was clear that many celebrities were thankful for being her friend. In fact, Cher ended the special with a touching cover of The Golden Girls theme song.