Larry King: Stand Up Comedy Tour
By: Daedrian McNaughton
Premier Guide Media/Premier Guide Miami
After a rejuvenating escape to Sunset Key Island Guest Cottages in Key West, we had the distinct pleasure of covering Larry King at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino and Resort. Here’s our take on The King’s schtick. Enjoy!
When legendary television and radio broadcaster Larry King began his career in Miami Beach decades ago, he could hardly foresee that he would evolve from an esteemed interviewer into a stand-up comic.
In 2010, King bid farewell to his iconic role as host of CNN’s “Larry King Live,” where he deftly navigated the world of politics and celebrity interviews. Since then, he has embraced a vibrant new chapter in his life, touring across the United States and sharing stories that encapsulate both his legendary broadcasting career and his colorful personal experiences.
Returning home to Miami—a city that played a pivotal role in his early days—King was welcomed with roaring applause and palpable excitement from the audience at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino. His entrance, clad in signature suspenders and stylish Ryan Seacrest jeans, radiated charisma and authenticity.
“It feels good to be home,” King proclaimed, setting the tone for an evening filled with laughter and nostalgia.
On stage, King transformed into “Larry the Lips,” a persona that allowed him the freedom to express himself with more candor than ever before. He opened the show with a humorous reflection on a notorious kiss shared with Marlon Brando during an interview. “I can’t stop thinking about that kiss,” he joked, eliciting laughs from the crowd.
As a master storyteller, King recounted tales from his youth as a Jewish kid in Brooklyn, his early days in radio, and unforgettable moments from his interviews with Hollywood’s elite. He even recounted a run-in with the Mafia, quipping, “The Mafia has a great sense of humor.”
When it came to discussing his family, the crowd erupted in laughter. “I have a young wife with two children, a young child in Honolulu,” he mused, adding, “and I did it without Viagra.” A testament to his irreverent humor and undeniable charm, King engaged the audience in a way that felt both personal and inclusive.
Larry King’s performance was nothing short of raw and uncensored, as he wove together anecdotes that revealed his joy and contentment in sharing those moments with strangers. For 90 captivating minutes, he proved that his wit and wisdom transcended the small screen and translated effortlessly into stand-up comedy.
“I’ve realized that if you are honest with the audience, you can’t go wrong,” he remarked, embodying the very essence of a performer who has spent decades connecting with people.
With each punchline and heartfelt moment, King reaffirmed his status not just as a titan of broadcasting, but as a gifted comedian willing to bare his soul for the sake of laughter. For those lucky enough to witness his return to the stage, it was a night to remember—one that celebrated the illustrious career of a true icon, now reinvented as a beloved storyteller.