Larry King was Born …:
… on November 19, 1933, as Lawrence Harvey Zieger in New York.
Growing up with Larry:
A Brooklynite most of his life, Larry also spent time in Bensonhurst, New York. He graduated from Lafayette High School.
Larry’s First Job & The Early Years:
Before he turned 22, Larry held a variety of regular joe jobs – from mail clerk to United Parcel Service associate. But none stuck, and Larry migrated south to Miami to begin a career in radio.
He got a job in radio almost immediately – as an assistant, doing light janitorial duties and general office work. Larry finally made it on the air at WIOD in Miami Beach when another deejay quit. It’s here that Larry Zeiger became Larry King, after his general manager declared his last name “too ethnic.”
The small job led to larger fame when he interviewed Bobby Darin almost by chance at a restaurant in Miami Beach. His radio show made him a local celebrity.
Becoming a Talk Show Host:
Larry’s career took an awkward turn – one riddled by legal and financial troubles – until 1978, when he was rehired by WIOD to take over a popular nightly talk show. Prior to that, he had been a color commentator for Shreveport Steamer World Football League team in Louisiana.
Larry joined CNN in 1985, bringing his trademark interview style to the all-news network. Guests have run the gamut from politicians and newsmakers to celebrities and psychics. Since joining CNN, he has interviewed thousands.
What Does the Future Hold?:
With a number of heart attacks, open heart surgery and, most recently, vascular surgery, Larry’s community time and focus has shifted to combating heart disease. He established the Larry King Cardiac Foundation. He also supports educational and other not-for-profit ventures through donation and education.
And Just for Fun:
- Larry King has been married seven times to six different women. He is presently married to Shawn Southwick.
- King’s first celebrity interview was Bobby Darrin. The first guest on Larry King Live was then governor of New York Mario Cuomo.
- He is a Peabody Award winner, and has won several CableACE awards.
- Is a member of the Radio Hall of Fame.
