When you think of American broadcasting, one name instantly comes to mind: Larry King. From humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York, he transformed into a media legend, hosting over 50,000 interviews and creating one of television’s most iconic shows, Larry King Live.
Millions tuned in nightly to hear his simple yet compelling questions, whether directed at presidents, celebrities, or everyday people. Beyond fame, his financial journey is equally fascinating. With decades on radio, television, and online platforms, plus savvy investments and real estate, Larry King net worth tells the story of a man who turned conversation into a multi-million-dollar empire.
Larry King Wiki
| Fact | Detail |
| Full Name | Lawrence Harvey Zeiger |
| Birth Date | November 19, 1933 |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York |
| Death Date | January 23, 2021 |
| Net Worth | $50 million |
| Initial CNN Salary (1985) | $200,000 |
| Early 1990s Salary | $2 million per year |
| 1994 CNN Contract | $3.5 million per year |
| 1998 CNN Contract | $7 million per year, $35 million total, $5 million signing bonus, Time Warner stock options |
| Major Shows | Larry King Live, Larry King Now |
| Interviews Conducted | 50,000+ |
| Notable Guests | Presidents Gerald Ford to Barack Obama |
| Awards | 2 Peabody Awards, Emmy Award, Cable ACE Awards, Golden Mike Award |
| Radio Career | Mutual Broadcasting System and local radio stations |
| Online Ventures | Ora TV, Larry King Now |
| Marriages | Eight |
| Children | Five |
| Health Issues | Heart attack, quintuple bypass surgery |
| Philanthropy | Larry King Cardiac Foundation |
| Beverly Hills Mansion Purchase Price | $11.75 million |
| Beverly Hills Mansion Sale Price | $15.5 million |
| Replacement on CNN | Piers Morgan |
What Was Larry King’s Net Worth and Salary?
By the time of his passing on January 23, 2021, Larry King had amassed a staggering $50 million net worth. His wealth came from a combination of television earnings, radio income, business ventures, and real estate. The largest chunk of his fortune came from his long-running CNN shows, where his CNN contract and salary were historically impressive. When he first signed with CNN in 1985, he earned $200,000 annually, a significant amount for the time. By the early 1990s, his earnings had risen to $2 million per year, reflecting the success of Larry King Live, the highest-rated show on CNN. In 1994, he signed a new deal for $3.5 million per year, and in 1998, he negotiated a landmark contract worth $35 million, including $7 million per year and a $5 million signing bonus, plus Time Warner stock options.
Here’s a breakdown of his major contracts and earnings over time:
| Year | Contract Details | Annual Salary / Value |
| 1985 | Initial CNN deal | $200,000 |
| Early 1990s | Rising popularity | $2 million per year |
| 1994 | New CNN contract | $3.5 million per year |
| 1998 | Landmark contract | $7 million per year, $35 million total including $5 million signing bonus and Time Warner stock options |
Beyond television, Larry King’s radio career and public speaking engagements contributed significantly to his wealth. He also ventured into online broadcasting later in life with Ora TV and Larry King Now, proving that even in his later years, he remained a formidable presence in media.
Early Life
Larry King grew up as Lawrence Harvey Zeiger in Brooklyn, New York, where he faced a modest upbringing. His father worked in insurance and his mother took care of the household, instilling strong work ethics in young Larry. He attended local schools and developed an early fascination with media, particularly radio. His background in Brooklyn, coupled with a natural curiosity about people, laid the foundation for his unique interview style. Even as a young man, Larry was determined to connect with audiences in a personal, conversational way, setting him apart from other broadcasters.
Radio Career
- Larry King started his professional journey in radio, gaining experience with the Mutual Broadcasting System and local stations.
- His early radio programs focused on listener call-ins, helping him master live conversation.
- This period allowed him to refine his approachable style, which later became his trademark on television.
- His radio career provided financial stability, giving him momentum for bigger media opportunities.
- Through dedication and persistence, he became a recognizable voice in American households long before achieving television fame.
Television Career
Larry King’s transition from radio to television marked the next stage of his career. He quickly adapted to the visual medium, bringing his signature conversational charm to TV audiences. He became a trusted television journalist, conducting interviews with everyday people, celebrities, and world leaders alike.
His ability to connect with guests on a personal level made him a unique figure in broadcast journalism. Over time, King’s television presence skyrocketed, cementing his reputation as a media icon whose shows drew millions of viewers nightly.
Larry King Live
The launch of Larry King Live on CNN in 1985 transformed Larry into a household name. The show quickly became the longest-running television program in CNN history and earned King multiple accolades, including two Peabody Awards, an Emmy Award, Cable ACE Awards, and the Golden Mike Award. On this platform, he interviewed everyone from President Gerald Ford to Barack Obama, as well as countless celebrities, politicians, and newsmakers.
His ability to ask simple yet meaningful questions made his show incredibly engaging. At its peak, Larry King Live became the highest-rated show on CNN, solidifying both his cultural influence and financial success.
CNN Contract and Salary
Larry King’s financial success was closely tied to his CNN contract and salary. The network recognized his value early on, offering him $200,000 in 1985. By the 1990s, his earnings jumped to $2 million per year, reflecting the popularity of Larry King Live.
In 1994, King negotiated $3.5 million per year, and in 1998, he signed a historic $35 million contract, including $7 million per year, a $5 million signing bonus, and Time Warner stock options. These contracts made him one of the most well-paid broadcasters in history. His savvy negotiations, combined with his unparalleled work ethic, ensured that he remained financially secure while continuing to produce one of television’s most beloved programs.
Other Work
In addition to CNN, Larry King engaged in various other professional pursuits. He made guest appearances on television, participated in documentaries, and hosted speaking engagements worldwide. He also authored books, sharing his insights on interviews, media, and life experiences. These ventures diversified his income and reinforced his reputation as an American broadcaster who could successfully navigate multiple media platforms.
Other Ventures
Larry King was also a businessman. He invested in online media through Ora TV, co-created content for digital audiences, and explored partnerships that expanded his brand. His work on Larry King Now exemplified his adaptability, allowing him to connect with younger audiences while continuing to earn revenue. These ventures demonstrated his ability to evolve with the changing media landscape, ensuring that his net worth remained strong even after leaving traditional television.
Personal Life
Larry King’s personal life was as eventful as his career. He was married eight times and had five children, including with his last wife, Shawn Southwick. Health challenges, including a heart attack and quintuple bypass surgery, tested him, but he remained dedicated to his work and philanthropy.
He founded the Larry King Cardiac Foundation to help patients with heart conditions, reflecting his commitment to giving back. Despite his fame, Larry remained relatable, candidly discussing his struggles and successes with audiences.
Beverly Hills Mansion
Larry King lived a life of comfort, exemplified by his luxurious Beverly Hills mansion. He purchased the property for $11.75 million and later sold it for $15.5 million, reflecting both his taste and savvy investment skills. The mansion included high-end amenities befitting a media icon, hosting gatherings for celebrities and influential figures. This property symbolized not only his financial success but also his status as a respected figure in American culture.
Conclusion
Larry King’s journey from Brooklyn, New York, to global television stardom is a testament to talent, persistence, and adaptability. With an estimated $50 million net worth, he built a financial and cultural legacy unmatched in modern broadcasting. His groundbreaking CNN television program, Larry King Live, and later ventures like Ora TV and Larry King Now, showcased his unique interview style and enduring charm. Honored with two Peabody Awards, an Emmy Award, Cable ACE Awards, and a Golden Mike Award, King left behind a record of professional achievement and personal resilience. From interviewing presidents to connecting with millions at home, Larry King remains a shining example of success in American media.
FAQs
What was Larry King’s net worth at the time of his death?
Larry King’s net worth at the time of his death in 2021 was estimated to be $50 million, earned through television, radio, online ventures, and real estate investments.
How much did Larry King make from CNN?
Larry King earned significant income from CNN, including $200,000 initially in 1985, rising to $2 million per year in the early 1990s, and $7 million annually under his 1998 contract.
What was Larry King’s salary on “Larry King Live”?
During his tenure on Larry King Live, his salary ranged from $200,000 in 1985 to $7 million per year in 1998, plus a $5 million signing bonus and Time Warner stock options.
How many interviews did Larry King conduct?
Larry King conducted over 50,000 interviews throughout his career, speaking with world leaders, celebrities, and everyday Americans, establishing him as one of television’s most prolific broadcasters.
What awards did Larry King win during his career?
Larry King received two Peabody Awards, an Emmy Award, Cable ACE Awards, and the Golden Mike Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to broadcasting and journalism.
When was Larry King born and when did he die?
Lawrence Harvey Zeiger, known as Larry King, was born on November 19, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, and passed away on January 23, 2021.
How many times was Larry King married and how many children did he have?
Larry King was married eight times and had five children, including with his last wife, Shawn Southwick, balancing a personal life alongside his demanding broadcasting career.
What is known about Larry King’s Beverly Hills mansion?
Larry King’s Beverly Hills mansion was purchased for $11.75 million and sold for $15.5 million, featuring luxury amenities that reflected his success and high-profile lifestyle.
What health issues did Larry King face?
Larry King suffered a heart attack and underwent quintuple bypass surgery, prompting him to establish the Larry King Cardiac Foundation to help patients with serious heart conditions.
Who replaced Larry King on CNN after he retired?
After Larry King retired from CNN, Piers Morgan replaced him as host, continuing the network’s evening interview format that King had made famous for decades.
Ronan Vale is a pop culture enthusiast and entertainment writer with a passion for uncovering the stories behind the stars. He brings fresh perspectives on celebrity news, lifestyle trends, and entertainment insights, engaging readers with a mix of curiosity, depth, and insider knowledge.
