Larry King, the iconic broadcast journalist, built his career on curiosity and conversation, and his personal life often mirrored that public fascination. How many times has Larry King been married remains a common question, as his multiple relationships were high-profile and widely discussed across decades of media coverage.
Below is a detailed overview of his marital history, including the number of marriages, key timelines, and outcomes. This snapshot helps readers quickly grasp the scope and evolution of his relationships.
| Marriage Number | Spouse Name | Years Married | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jacqueline Ellul | 1961–1963 | Divorce |
| 2 | Ann Del Monte | 1964–1970 | Divorce |
| 3 | Alene Akins | 1976–1983 | Divorce |
| 4 | Sharon Lepore1983–1990 | Divorce | |
| 5 | Julie Alexander | 1991–1993 | Divorce |
| 6 | Shawn Southwick | 1997–2019 | Separated at time of death |
Early Marriages and Career Beginnings
Jacqueline Ellul and Ann Del Monte
Larry King's first marriage to Jacqueline Ellul in 1961 ended in divorce two years later, a relatively brief chapter during his early years in broadcasting. He quickly moved on and married Ann Del Monte in 1964, but that relationship also dissolved by 1970. These early unions occurred while King was establishing himself as a distinctive voice in radio and television, often working long hours and traveling frequently.
Middle Period Relationships and Stability Attempts
Alene Akins and Sharon Lepore
In the mid-1970s, Larry King married Alene Akins, a relationship that lasted seven years and reflected a longer commitment than his earlier marriages. He later wed Sharon Lepore in 1983, and that union endured for seven years before ending in divorce. During this phase of his life, King was gaining national prominence with his nightly interview show, which helped shape his public persona.
Later Marriage and Public Partnership
Julie Alexander and Shawn Southwick
After his divorce from Sharon Lepore, Larry King married Julie Alexander in 1991, though they separated after just two years. His final and longest marriage began in 1997 when he wed Shawn Southwick, a partnership that lasted more than two decades. Although they separated later in life, they remained legally married until his death and presented a united public image throughout much of his career.
Key Takeaways
- Larry King was married six times over the course of his life.
- His longest marriage was to Shawn Southwick, lasting more than 22 years.
- Most of his marriages ended in divorce, with the final one lasting until his death.
- His marital history reflects both personal challenges and high-profile public relationships.
- Understanding his marriages provides insight into the private life of a well-known public figure.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many times was Larry King married in total?
Larry King was married six times, with each marriage ending in divorce except for the last, which was ongoing at the time of his death.
Which marriage lasted the longest?
His marriage to Shawn Southwick lasted approximately 22 years, making it the longest of his six marriages.
Did Larry King have any children with his spouses?
Yes, he had children with several of his wives, including Chaia King and Cannon King from earlier relationships, and he maintained close bonds with his family throughout his life.
Was he legally married to Shawn Southwick when he passed away?
Yes, Larry King remained legally married to Shawn Southwick at the time of his death, despite having separated from her years earlier.