There is no Windows 8 driver available for Canon EOS Rebel XT, as far as I am aware of. However, there is a Windows Vista driver available on the Cannon Support websites. Try downloading it and installing it in Windows Vista compatibility mode and and see if it makes the EOS Utility work. If it does you should be able to remote shoot with a USB cable.
I have not tried my old XT with Win 7 or 8 but this may do the trick.
Good luck
EB
EOS 1D, EOS 1D MK IIn, EOS 1D MK III, EOS 1Ds MK III, EOS 1D MK IV and EOS 1DX and many lenses.
