Larry King Net Worth
Larry King, the iconic television and radio host, was known for his distinctive interview style and decades-long career. Hosting Larry King Live on CNN for 25 years, he became one of the most recognized figures in broadcast journalism. Over his career, King interviewed thousands of prominent figures, from world leaders to celebrities. At the time of his death in January 2021, Larry King’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.
Larry King Net Worth at a Glance
| Financial Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $50 million (2021) |
| Primary Sources of Wealth | Television hosting, radio shows, writing |
| Major Assets | Real estate, royalties |
| Notable Investments | TV production, writing, endorsements |
| Other Financial Ventures | Speaking engagements, book deals |
Key Earnings and Income Sources
Larry King accumulated his wealth from various ventures, primarily in broadcasting:
- Television Hosting: King’s most significant income came from his long tenure as the host of Larry King Live on CNN, which ran from 1985 to 2010. During the height of his career, it is estimated that King earned up to $7 million annually. His unique interviewing style, where he allowed guests to tell their stories with minimal interruption, attracted millions of viewers and made him a central figure on CNN.
- Radio and Podcasts: Before his success on television, King started his career in radio, hosting The Larry King Show, a nationwide late-night call-in program. In later years, he transitioned into digital media, including hosting Larry King Now, a web series on Hulu and RT America, which also contributed to his income.
- Books and Writing: King was a prolific author, writing more than a dozen books during his lifetime. His works ranged from memoirs to advice columns, further adding to his wealth through book deals and royalties.
- Public Speaking and Endorsements: Throughout his career, King was in demand as a public speaker and earned additional income through endorsements, often lending his recognizable voice and image to various campaigns.
Assets and Investments
Larry King’s wealth was also tied to his real estate and other investments:
- Real Estate: King owned several luxury properties over his lifetime, including a mansion in Beverly Hills, which he sold for $15.5 million in 2020 amid his divorce proceedings with his seventh wife, Shawn Southwick.
- Royalties and Media Rights: King’s long and successful career meant he had numerous royalties and syndication rights tied to his shows and interviews, adding to his income even after his retirement from CNN.
Career Highlights
Larry King’s career spanned more than six decades, filled with memorable moments:
- Larry King Live: King’s most notable achievement was hosting Larry King Live, where he interviewed over 50,000 guests. His show became synonymous with candid, in-depth conversations, and King was praised for his ability to get interviewees to open up.
- Presidential Interviews: Throughout his career, King interviewed every U.S. president from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama, along with world leaders, adding to his reputation as a premier interviewer.
- Books and Memoirs: King wrote several best-selling books, including his memoir, My Remarkable Journey, which details his rise from a poor kid in Brooklyn to an internationally recognized broadcaster.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Larry King was born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger on November 19, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York. His career in broadcasting began in the 1950s as a radio DJ in Miami. Over time, he moved into television, where his career skyrocketed. King’s early struggles, including financial hardships and overcoming personal challenges, helped shape his distinctive style as an interviewer.
Philanthropy and Public Impact
Larry King was involved in several philanthropic activities, focusing on health-related causes, particularly cardiac research after suffering multiple heart attacks himself. He founded the Larry King Cardiac Foundation, which helped provide funding for life-saving treatments for those in need.
Personal Life
Larry King was married eight times to seven women, with his most recent marriage to Shawn Southwick ending in divorce in 2020. He had five children, two of whom tragically passed away in 2020. King’s personal life, marked by numerous marriages and health battles, was often in the public eye, but his professional success remained a constant.
Conclusion
With a net worth of $50 million, Larry King left behind a lasting legacy as one of the most influential broadcasters in television history. His career spanned decades, earning him immense wealth and a place in the pantheon of great interviewers. Through his television, radio, and writing ventures, Larry King’s impact on media will be remembered for generations.
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