Larry King: CNN Legend's Russian TV Controversy Sparks Media Debate
Larry King, the iconic American broadcaster, found himself at the center of controversy in his later years due to his association with Russian state-funded network RT. King's decision to host shows on RT after his long tenure at CNN raised eyebrows and sparked debate about journalistic integrity and international influence.
King's involvement with RT highlighted the complex relationship between media, politics, and global power dynamics. The veteran interviewer, known for his straightforward style and ability to connect with guests, faced criticism for lending his credibility to a network often accused of promoting Russian propaganda.
Despite the controversy, King maintained that he valued free speech and resisted censorship. He continued to host his programs on RT until his death in 2021, defending his choice as an opportunity to reach a global audience and conduct interviews without interference. The situation underscored the challenges faced by journalists navigating an increasingly interconnected and politically charged media landscape.
Early Life and Career
Larry King's journey from a Brooklyn boy to a broadcasting legend spanned decades of hard work and determination. His distinctive voice and interviewing style would come to define an era of television.
Brooklyn Roots and Radio Beginnings
Born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger in 1933, Larry King grew up in Brooklyn, New York. He dreamed of a career in radio from a young age. In 1957, King moved to Miami, Florida to pursue his broadcasting ambitions. He landed his first job at a small radio station, where he performed various duties including cleaning and delivering news bulletins.
King's big break came when he was asked to fill in for an announcer who failed to show up. He adopted the name Larry King on air, as suggested by the station's general manager. His natural talent for engaging listeners quickly became apparent.
The Rise of 'Larry King Live'
King's radio career flourished in Miami. He hosted a popular interview program on WIOD and gained local celebrity status. In 1978, he began hosting "The Larry King Show" on the Mutual Broadcasting System, a nationally syndicated late-night radio program.
CNN took notice of King's interviewing prowess and offered him his own television show in 1985. "Larry King Live" debuted and quickly became the network's most watched and longest-running program. King's relaxed demeanor and straightforward questioning style made guests feel at ease, leading to candid and revealing interviews.
His show became a must-stop for politicians, celebrities, and newsmakers. King conducted over 30,000 interviews during his career at CNN, cementing his status as a broadcasting icon.
Personal Life
Larry King's personal life was marked by multiple marriages, health challenges, and charitable work. His relationships and medical issues often made headlines, while his philanthropic efforts aimed to help others facing similar health struggles.
Marriages and Relationships
Larry King was married eight times to seven different women. His longest marriage was to Shawn Southwick, lasting from 1997 to 2019. King filed for divorce twice during their union, first in 2010 and again in 2019.
The couple had two sons together, Chance and Cannon. King also had three children from previous marriages.
His first marriage occurred at age 19 and lasted less than a year. King's other marriages included unions with Alene Akins (twice), Annette Kaye, Mickey Sutphin, Sharon Lepore, and Julie Alexander.
Health Issues and Well-Being
King faced several significant health challenges throughout his life. In 1987, he suffered a major heart attack that required quintuple bypass surgery.
This experience led him to quit smoking and make substantial lifestyle changes. King was also diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which he managed for many years.
In 2017, King revealed he had been diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent successful surgery. Two years later, in 2019, he suffered a stroke that left him in a coma for weeks.
King's resilience in the face of these health issues became a defining aspect of his later years.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Inspired by his own health struggles, King established the Larry King Cardiac Foundation in 1988. The foundation's mission was to help fund life-saving cardiac procedures for individuals who lacked insurance or financial means.
King actively fundraised for the organization and used his celebrity status to raise awareness about heart health.
The foundation assisted thousands of people in obtaining necessary cardiac care. King's commitment to this cause reflected his desire to give back and support others facing similar health challenges.
Professional Achievements
Larry King's career in broadcasting spanned over six decades, marked by groundbreaking interviews and numerous accolades. His unique interviewing style and ability to connect with guests from all walks of life made him a television icon.
Landmark Interviews and Guests
King interviewed over 50,000 people throughout his career, including world leaders, celebrities, and ordinary citizens with extraordinary stories. He sat down with every U.S. president from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama. Notable guests included:
Marlon Brando, who famously kissed King on the lips during their 1994 interview
Vladimir Putin, whom King interviewed multiple times
Lady Gaga, showcasing King's ability to connect with younger generations
King's relaxed, conversational approach often elicited candid responses from his guests, making his interviews must-see TV.
Awards and Recognitions
King's contributions to broadcasting earned him numerous prestigious awards:
Two Peabody Awards for excellence in broadcasting
An Emmy Award for outstanding interview/interviewer
10 Cable ACE Awards, recognizing his work in cable television
He was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 32nd Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards. King's show, "Larry King Live," became CNN's most-watched and longest-running program, airing for 25 years from 1985 to 2010.
Controversies and Challenges
Larry King faced several significant hurdles throughout his career, from network struggles to unexpected media partnerships and personal difficulties.
CNN's Prime-Time Struggles
CNN experienced declining ratings during King's later years at the network. The channel faced stiff competition from Fox News and MSNBC in prime-time slots. King's show, once a ratings powerhouse, saw its viewership dwindle. CNN President Jeff Zucker sought to revitalize the network's lineup, leading to King's departure in 2010.
King's exit marked the end of an era for CNN. The network struggled to find a suitable replacement, cycling through various hosts and formats. This transition period highlighted the changing landscape of cable news and audience preferences.
The Foray into Russian Media
After leaving CNN, King launched a new show on Ora TV, a digital network. In 2013, RT (formerly Russia Today) began broadcasting King's program. This move sparked controversy due to RT's reputation as a Russian state-funded network.
Critics questioned King's decision to associate with RT, given its perceived bias in coverage of Russian affairs. King maintained that he had editorial freedom and was not influenced by Russian interests. The arrangement raised eyebrows in media circles and among some of King's longtime viewers.
Legal and Financial Hurdles
Early in his career, King faced personal challenges that threatened his professional trajectory. In 1971, he was arrested on charges of grand larceny. The allegations stemmed from a complex financial situation involving a former business associate.
Although the charges were eventually dropped, the incident temporarily derailed King's career. He lost his job as a disc jockey and struggled to find work in broadcasting. King's financial troubles extended to gambling debts accrued at racetracks.
These setbacks forced King to rebuild his reputation and career from the ground up. He eventually overcame these obstacles, but they remained a notable chapter in his life story.
Later Career and Ventures
Larry King continued to evolve his broadcasting career in the digital age. He embraced new platforms and collaborated with diverse media partners to reach audiences.
Transition to Digital Broadcasting
King launched Ora TV in 2012, a digital network he co-founded with Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim. The platform hosted his new show "Larry King Now," which aired on Hulu and RT America. This venture allowed King to continue his signature long-form interviews in an on-demand format.
King also explored podcasting, launching "The Larry King Podcast" in 2015. This medium gave him flexibility to discuss a wide range of topics with guests from various fields.
Diverse Media Collaborations
After leaving CNN, King made appearances on other networks and programs. He hosted "Larry King Special Report" on RT America from 2013 to 2020.
King collaborated with Russian state-sponsored network RT, which drew some controversy. He maintained editorial control over his content and continued his style of non-confrontational interviews.
In 2012, King moderated the third-party presidential debate hosted by the Free and Equal Elections Foundation in Chicago. This event showcased his continued relevance in political discourse.
Legacy and Influence
Larry King's impact on broadcasting and journalism spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His unique interview style and ability to connect with guests shaped modern media practices.
Impact on Modern Journalism
Larry King revolutionized the art of the interview. His conversational approach and willingness to ask tough questions set a new standard for broadcast journalism. King's ability to put guests at ease, whether celebrities or world leaders, allowed for more candid and revealing exchanges.
His nightly CNN show "Larry King Live" became a must-watch program for millions. It served as a platform for breaking news, political debates, and in-depth discussions on current events. King's influence extended beyond television, inspiring a generation of journalists and interviewers.
Memory and Tributes
After King's passing in January 2021 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, tributes poured in from around the world. Former U.S. Presidents, celebrities, and fellow broadcasters praised his contributions to journalism and television.
Many remembered King for his trademark suspenders and engaging interview style. CNN, his longtime network home, honored him with special programming highlighting his most memorable moments. Journalism schools and media organizations continue to study King's techniques and career as a model for aspiring broadcasters.
His legacy lives on through the countless interviews he conducted and the lasting impact he had on the media landscape.
