Larry King | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 23, 2025

Who is Larry King?

Larry King, born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger on November 19, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, was a legendary talk show host known for his unique interviewing style and his ability to connect with a diverse range of guests. King's early life was marked by tragedy when his father passed away when he was just nine, leading his mother to rely on welfare to support their family. Despite a rocky start in school, King's passion for radio propelled him to begin his broadcasting career in Miami, where he eventually adopted the name "Larry King" before gaining fame in the industry.

In 1978, Larry King launched his nightly radio talk show, The Larry King Show, which garnered a strong following and led to an invitation from Ted Turner to host Larry King Live on CNN in 1985. This groundbreaking program became the first international TV call-in show, featuring a diverse array of guests, including presidents, celebrities, and everyday people. Over 25 years, King's approachable and straightforward interviewing style won the hearts of millions, making his show a pivotal platform for discussions on current events, culture, and human-interest stories. He announced his retirement from the show in 2010, leaving a legacy of insightful and compelling television journalism.

Early Life and Education

Larry King, born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger on November 19, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, was the son of Jewish immigrants Edward Zeiger and Jennie Gitlitz. His early life was shaped by tragedy, as his father passed away from heart disease when King was just nine years old. This left his mother to support him and his younger brother, Marty, on welfare. Despite his dream of working in radio, King's emotional stability was compromised following his father's death, leading him to struggle academically and barely finish high school. With limited prospects, he took a job as a mail clerk to contribute to his family's support.

The turning point in King's career aspirations came when he met a CBS television announcer, who encouraged him to pursue opportunities in Florida's burgeoning media market. Moving to Miami, King landed a job at WAHR radio station, where he initially took on menial tasks. However, when a male announcer resigned, King seized the opportunity to go on air under the name "Larry King"—a name he chose last minute after spotting a liquor store advertisement. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a successful broadcasting career that would eventually blossom into his famous talk show persona.

Radio Career Beginnings

Larry King's radio career began in the late 1950s after he moved to Florida, where he previously worked as a mail clerk. A chance encounter with a CBS television announcer inspired him to pursue broadcasting in Miami, a city emerging as a hub for media. King debuted at Miami radio station WAHR (now WMBM) around 1957, initially taking on menial tasks. His opportunity came when a male announcer left the station, allowing him to step into the role. Displaying natural charisma and talent, King quickly advanced to a regular on-air host, marking the start of a remarkable journey in radio.

As he honed his craft at WAHR, King adopted the stage name "Larry King" to sound more memorable and less ethnically specific, which was a decision he made just minutes before going live. His engaging style and sincerity won over listeners, and by 1960, he transitioned to local television, further establishing his popularity. King's ventures during this period included a newspaper column in the Miami Herald, which complemented his growing presence in the entertainment landscape of South Florida. With his growing reputation, King emerged as a key figure in local media, setting the stage for his future success on a national level.

Television Career and Major Achievements

Larry King’s television career took off in the 1980s when he was recruited by Ted Turner to host "Larry King Live" on CNN, which premiered in 1985. The show quickly became a staple of American television, recognized as the first international TV call-in program. Over its 25-year run, King developed a reputation for his direct, conversational interview style, allowing guests to communicate their views without confrontation. This approach attracted a wide array of prominent figures, ranging from presidents and celebrities to everyday individuals who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. King’s ability to engage with various guests made his show not only entertaining but also a significant platform for important conversations.

Under King's stewardship, "Larry King Live" reached unprecedented ratings, becoming the highest-rated talk show in the nation. This level of popularity transformed the show into a must-appear venue for celebrities promoting their latest projects, and it became a vital stop for political figureheads, evident when Ross Perot chose to announce his 1992 presidential campaign on King's platform. King's influence extended beyond entertainment; he was a conduit for humanitarian fundraising efforts, notably disaster relief initiatives that rallied support for affected communities. His legacy in broadcasting is marked by this blend of celebrity interviews, serious discussions, and impactful fundraising efforts, reflecting his unique capability to connect diverse audiences through simple, yet profound dialogue.

Other Projects and Voice Work

Larry King's influence extended beyond his renowned role as a talk show host. He ventured into various other projects, showcasing his versatility and charisma. He appeared as himself in several movies and television shows, where he leveraged his unique interviewing style and presence. His cameos not only entertained audiences but also solidified his status as a cultural icon. Some notable appearances included shows like "The Simpsons" and "30 Rock," where his distinct mannerisms and persona brought a touch of authenticity to the fictional narratives.

In addition to his television appearances, King lent his voice to animated films, contributing to some of the most beloved characters in popular culture. He voiced a character in "Shrek 2" (2004), "Shrek the Third" (2007), and "Bee Movie" (2007). These roles highlighted King's ability to adapt and engage with diverse mediums, appealing to both younger audiences and long-time fans. His work in animation allowed him to reach new demographics, further establishing him as a multi-faceted entertainer. Through these various projects and voice work, Larry King consistently captivated audiences beyond his primary role as a talk show host.

Personal Life: Married Eight Times and Four Children

Larry King, a towering figure in broadcasting, is also well known for his tumultuous personal life marked by multiple marriages and children. Over the course of his life, he was married a total of eight times, a reflection of his search for companionship and love amidst his busy career. His first marriage was to his high school sweetheart, Freda Miller, when he was just 19. Throughout his subsequent unions, King became a father to four children, highlighting his dedication to family even amid personal challenges.

King's relationships often garnered media attention, particularly his marriage to Shawn Southwick in 1997, which took place in his hospital room just days before he underwent heart surgery. Southwick, who was significantly younger than King, shared two sons with him, named Chance and Cannon. Despite facing public scrutiny and personal hardships, including their separation in 2010, the couple ultimately chose to delay their divorce proceedings, citing their commitment to their children as a priority. This decision underscored King's complex but heartfelt approach to family life.

Net Worth and Earning: Wealth and Career Earnings

Larry King's career was not only marked by his iconic interviewing style but also by his impressive financial success. Over his decades-long tenure in broadcasting, particularly through his flagship show "Larry King Live" on CNN, he amassed a substantial fortune. By the time of his passing in 2021, King's net worth was estimated to be between $50 million to $150 million, largely derived from his salary as a television host, endorsements, and various media appearances. He is widely acknowledged as one of the most successful talk show hosts in television history, and his ability to attract high-profile guests undoubtedly contributed to his commercial appeal.

In addition to his primary television work, King was involved in various other business ventures that helped augment his earnings. He launched a web series titled "Larry King Now" in 2012, which further showcased his interviewing prowess in the digital age. Moreover, King authored several books, including a notable autobiography, generating additional revenue through published work. His distinctive style and ability to connect with a diverse range of guests not only garnered him critical acclaim but also secured his financial legacy in the broadcasting industry.