Larry King spent more than six decades as a recognizable voice in American media, and his personal life drew constant public attention. Across seven decades, his relationships and marriages were as discussed as his late-night interviews, shaping how audiences viewed both his charm and his vulnerabilities.
From young radio hosts to established journalists, King's romantic history continues to fuel curiosity. This article organizes key facts about his marriages, annulments, divorces, and final years into clear sections designed for readers who want reliable information without unnecessary speculation.
Marriage Timeline Overview
The following table summarizes Larry King's main marriages and related legal events in a compact format for quick reference.
| Marriage | Years | Partner | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| First marriage | 1961–1963 | Ellen Naples | Annulment |
| Second marriage | 1963–1970 | Alene Akins | Divorce |
| Third marriage | 1976–1983 | Mickey Sutphin | Divorce |
| Fourth marriage | 1989–1992 | Sharon Lepore | Divorce |
| Fifth marriage | 2005–2017 | Shawn Southwick | Separation, ongoing legal issues at his death |
| Last personal partner | 2017–2021 | Deanna Vanessa Littlefield | No marriage, companionship until his death |
Early Marriages and Annulment
King's first marriage to Ellen Naples in 1961 ended in an annulment just two years later. At the time, he was a young announcer in local radio, and the brief union did not establish deep roots or shared assets.
Because the marriage was annulled rather than divorced, there was no prolonged legal battle. This early experience may have influenced his approach to avoiding drawn-out court fights in later separations.
Television Fame and Subsequent Divorces
Once Larry King became a national television name, his marriages became more visible and complicated. The second union with Alene Akins lasted seven years, while the third with Mickey Sutphin and the fourth with Sharon Lepore followed patterns of public attention and eventual divorce.
Children and Public Scrutiny
Across these partnerships, King balanced fatherhood and public life. Several of his children remained out of the spotlight, while others appeared occasionally in interviews, highlighting the tension between private family life and his media persona.
The Shawn Southwick Marriage and Later Years
King's marriage to Shawn Southwick from 2005 to 2017 became the most covered chapter of his romantic life. Their separation initiated high-profile legal disputes over assets, healthcare decisions, and his final years.
Health and Final Companionship
After their separation, King remained publicly linked to Deanna Vanessa Littlefield, who provided companionship until his death. Although they never remarried, this relationship shaped conversations about his care and legacy.
Key Takeaways
- King navigated multiple marriages spanning five different partners across more than fifty years.
- His first marriage was annulled, while later separations involved significant legal and media attention.
- The marriage to Shawn Southwick was his longest and most financially consequential.
- His final years included companionship with Deanna Littlefield, though no legal marriage occurred.
- Public curiosity about his relationships persists because they intersect with his influential career.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many times was Larry King married, and which marriage lasted the longest?
He had five marriages, with his longest lasting marriage being the one to Shawn Southwick, which lasted twelve years from 2005 to 2017.
Were any of his marriages annulled, and why does that matter?
Yes, his first marriage to Ellen Naples was annulled, which meant it was legally treated as if it never happened, avoiding a formal divorce process.
Did Larry King have children with any of his wives?
Yes, he had children with at least Alene Akins and possibly other partners, though details about all his children remain limited in public records.
What happened to his estate after his death related to his last marriage?
Legal battles over his estate emerged between Shawn Southwick and other parties, reflecting unresolved financial and personal questions at the time of his death.