Larry King receives touching tribute from Conan O’Brien
By Matt Moore
Legendary television and radio host Larry King passed away on Jan. 23 at the age of 87. He spent over 60 years in the industry, conducting tens of thousands of interviews and cementing himself as one of the greatest broadcasters of all time.
King’s death resulted in an outpour of tributes from throughout the worlds of entertainment, politics, and journalism. Each was a testament to King’s talents behind the microphone and to his character.
With that kind of career longevity, it’s no surprise that King crossed paths with late night television personalities a number of times. He appeared as an interview guest, interviewed late night hosts, and performed in countless bits and sketches over the years.
But King’s true late night home was undoubtedly Late Night with Conan O’Brien. Year after year, sketch after sketch, and interview after interview demonstrated how King’s sense of humor and playfulness perfectly synched with that of O’Brien. It continued as O’Brien moved to TBS and launched Conan and King remained one of the show’s most entertaining guests.
Monday night gave O’Brien the chance to share more of his thoughts about Larry King and his passing. Hear from the comedian below before he introduces a package of some of King’s best moments on the show.
Conan O’Brien recalls how his original Late Night show became a comedy haven for Larry King. The serious journalist could try out jokes and show off his silly side next to O’Brien and Andy Richter, showing audiences a different side of the man they watched interview the biggest newsmakers in the world on CNN.
The highlights following O’Brien’s tribute prove his point that King was up for anything. Auditioning to play Wolverine, “The Year 2000,” and doing his show from the rafters were just some of the bits King went along with and clearly enjoyed doing.
Larry King received tributes from other late night television hosts
Conan O’Brien wasn’t the only late night television host who had a relationship with Larry King. Other comedians shared their thoughts on social media over the weekend after hearing about King’s passing.
When I was a young morning DJ, I listened to Larry King's overnight radio show every night on my way to work. He was one of the greats and I am glad to have known him "Bethesda, Maryland you're on the air..."
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) January 23, 2021
I don't usually post anything when someone dies, but Larry King touched my life in a big way. Dozens of times he gave me the whole hour on his CNN show when that show ruled smart TV. That time together with him is a great memory as are all the other times we spent. Great guy.
— Bill Maher (@billmaher) January 23, 2021
Just heard the awful news about Larry King. He taught me so much. He was a true mensch. He probably even taught me that word.
— Craig Ferguson (@CraigyFerg) January 23, 2021
So long pal, thanks for all the laughs. Say hi to Rickles. #RIPLarryKing
Related Story. Conan O'Brien ending late night show for HBO Max project. light
What is your favorite moment between Larry King and Conan O’Brien? Let us know in the comment section below.