Larry King

Easton Press Larry King books

Tell Me More - signed first edition - 1990
On The Line - signed first edition - 1993
Future Talk - signed first edition - 1998
Anything Goes! - signed first edition - 2000

 

Host Larry King biography

Lawrence Harvey Zeiger, better known as Larry King, was born on November 19, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, to Jewish immigrant parents. His humble beginnings laid the groundwork for a remarkable journey that would see him become one of the most iconic figures in American broadcasting history. King's early years were marked by hardship and tragedy. His father passed away when he was just nine years old, leaving his mother struggling to support the family. Despite these challenges, King exhibited an early passion for radio broadcasting, a medium that would ultimately define his career. After high school, King pursued his dreams with determination, working various jobs in the radio industry to gain experience and hone his craft. His breakthrough came in the late 1950s when he landed his own radio show on WAHR in Miami, Florida. This opportunity marked the beginning of King's ascent to prominence in the world of broadcasting.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, King's career flourished as he hosted a number of radio and television programs, including The Larry King Show on Mutual Broadcasting System and later on the Westwood One radio network. His distinctive interviewing style, characterized by a casual yet probing approach, endeared him to audiences and guests alike. However, it was his iconic television program, Larry King Live, which premiered on CNN in 1985, that cemented his status as a broadcasting legend. For over 25 years, King captivated viewers with his in-depth interviews featuring a diverse array of guests, ranging from world leaders and celebrities to ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances.

King's success on Larry King Live was unparalleled, earning him numerous awards and accolades, including Peabody Awards and CableACE Awards. His impact on the media landscape was profound, pioneering the long-form interview format that became a staple of television journalism.

Beyond his professional achievements, King was known for his colorful personality and trademark suspenders, as well as his warmth and curiosity in conversation. He approached every interview with genuine interest and respect for his guests, earning their trust and eliciting candid revelations. Despite retiring from his nightly CNN show in 2010, King remained active in broadcasting and continued to make occasional appearances as a guest host and commentator. His influence on the field of journalism endured, inspiring countless aspiring broadcasters to follow in his footsteps.

Larry King's legacy transcends the realm of broadcasting, embodying the values of curiosity, empathy, and integrity that defined his career. His contributions to the media industry and his impact on popular culture ensure that his voice will resonate for generations to come. Larry King passed away on January 23, 2021, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest interviewers in history.