In a breaking and developing news story, talk show host Larry King (76) just announced that he's ending his long-running talk show Larry King Live on CNN after 25 years on the air at the global news network.
Larry King Live can be seen in South Africa on CNN International (DStv 401) weekdays at 11:00. His current contract ends in June 2011 but now he'll most probably end his show by the end of November 2010.
''Before I start the show tonight, I want to share some personal news with you. Twenty-five years ago, I sat across this table from New York Governor Mario Cuomo for the first broadcast of Larry King Live. Now, decades later, I talked to the guys here at CNN and I told them I would like to end Larry King Live, the nightly show, this fall and CNN has graciously accepted, giving me more time for my wife and I to get to the kids' little league games,'' says the iconic talk show host known for his suspenders.
''I'll still be a part of the CNN family, hosting several Larry King specials on major national and international subjects. I'm incredibly proud that we recently made the Guinness Book of World Records for having the longest running show with the same host in the same time slot. With this chapter closing I'm looking forward to the future and what my next chapter will bring, but for now it's time to hang up my nightly suspenders."
CNN says: ''Just as CNN redefined the news business, Larry King defined the art of the television interview. His candor, curiosity and compassion are legendary, and his ability to interview people from all walks of life - world leaders, celebrities and everyday people - has made him an icon. Having conducted nearly 50 000 interviews over 50-plus years in broadcasting, Larry deserves to take some time for himself and his family. After 25 years at CNN, he will conclude Larry King Live on his own terms, sometime this fall.''
Larry King first announced the news on Twitter of all places. I have that, as well as CNN's internal memo to staff if you click on READ MORE below.
Here is CNN's internal memo to staff:
TO: CNN Colleagues
FR: Jon Klein
Larry King has asked that I share with you a message to his audience that will be broadcast tonight at the top of his show. After 25 years, Larry has decided to take a step back from the nightly grind. He wants to take some time for himself and his family. So he will end his run with Larry King Live on his own terms, sometime this fall.
He is not leaving CNN. Larry is a beloved member of the CNN family and he will continue to contribute to our air with periodic specials.
Larry has been a giant in the industry for as long as most of us can remember. Anyone who ever mattered has sat for an interview on Larry's iconic set. They all know the man it is our privilege to call our colleague and friend - tireless and curious, respectful and inquisitive, caring, generous, influential, a citizen of the world.
We will celebrate his tenure in proper fashion over the coming months. Today is about Larry and about the beginning of a new chapter. It is not about good-bye.
