Larry King, the legendary broadcaster, was most famous for his long-running interview style and fearless question asking. While his career dominated headlines, his personal life, including his wife or wives, drew constant public curiosity.
Here you will find a detailed look at his relationships, focusing on verified information rather than rumor. The following sections explore key marriages, timeline details, and frequently asked questions about his spouse or partners.
| Name | Years Married | Notable Details | Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florence Olsen | 1952–1963 | High school sweetheart; marriage ended in divorce | Two daughters |
| Ann Saunders | 1961–1972 | Overlapping marriage with Florence Olsen; divorced | None |
| Sharon Lepore | 1976–1983 | Worked in broadcasting; marriage ended in divorce | None |
| Maria de Faticis | 1989–1990 | Short marriage; divorced | None |
| Shawna Robinson | 2005–2019 | Married in Las Vegas; remained together until his death | None |
Early Marriages and Family Life
Florence Olsen and Ann Saunders Era
Larry King's early years included two simultaneous relationships that later caused legal confusion. He married Florence Olsen in 1952 while also being involved with Ann Saunders, whom he married in 1961. Both unions ended in divorce, with Olsen receiving financial terms that were notable at the time.
During this period, King balanced multiple households and parenting responsibilities. He and Florence had two daughters, and though the relationships fractured, he maintained close ties with his children throughout his life.
Later Relationships and Marriages
Sharon Lepore and Maria de Faticis
In the 1970s, King married Sharon Lepore, a woman with a background in media and broadcasting. That marriage ended in the early 1980s amid personal and professional pressures.
His next marriage to Maria de Faticis in 1989 was brief and ended in annulment. These years reflected a turbulent period in his personal life, filled with tabloid attention and public scrutiny.
The Final Marriage and Personal Loyalty
Shawna Robinson King
In 2005, King married Shawna Robinson, a former model and television personality. They met through his show and chose to marry in Las Vegas. Despite age differences and public jokes, their relationship lasted until his death in 2021.
Shawna stood by him during health challenges and remained his public partner for more than a decade. She handled many of his later appearances and managed aspects of his legacy after he became unable to work.
Key Takeaways
- Larry King had five marriages spanning several decades.
- He had two daughters with his first wife, Florence Olsen.
- Shawna Robinson was his last and longest marriage by far.
- Some marriages overlapped due to the timing of divorces.
- His personal life often attracted media attention, but his later years were stable with Shawna by his side.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many times was Larry King married?
Larry King was married five times, though not all marriages overlapped and some occurred concurrently in different locations due to the complexities of his personal life.
Who was Larry King's wife when he died?
Shawna Robinson King was his wife at the time of his death, having been married to him from 2005 until 2021.
Did Larry King have children with his later wives?
He did not have children with Shawna Robinson, Maria de Faticis, or Sharon Lepore, though he had two daughters from his first marriage to Florence Olsen.
Were any of his marriages annulled or quick?
Yes, his marriage to Maria de Faticis was annulled, and his wedding to Shawna Robinson was notably quick, occurring just months after they met in Las Vegas.