'Instead of goodbye, how about so long?': Friends and fans remember veteran talk show host Larry King

Larry King, who quizzed thousands of world leaders, politicians and entertainers for CNN and other news outlets in a career spanning more than six decades, has died aged 87.

King was reported to have been hospitalised in Los Angeles with a Covid-19 infection.

Millions watched King interview world leaders, entertainers and other celebrities on CNN’s Larry King Live, which ran from 1985 to 2010. Hunched over his desk in rolled-up shirt sleeves and owlish glasses, he made his show one of the network’s prime attractions with a mix of interviews, political discussions, current event debates and phone calls from viewers.

His influence on the media landscape is irrefutable and today, as news spread of his demise, many paid rich tributes to the late anchor and his legacy.

CNN shared a poignant moment from King's show and a message from network president Jeff Zucker.

Hamid Mir, a household name when it comes to Pakistani news shows, called King "an inspiration and institution for youngsters".

PTI minister Fawad Chaudhry shared a quote by King in his condolence message.

"It seems like Larry King has been in broadcasting for longer than time itself," wrote CNN correspondent Sara Sidner.

Sophia Saifi, another CNN correspondent, spoke of his far-reaching legacy.

British host Piers Morgan, while acknowledging differences with his predecessor, called King "a brilliant broadcaster & masterful TV interviewer".

Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s chief international anchor, recalled how "EVERYONE wanted to be on Larry King Live".

New York Mayor Andrew Cuomo sent condolences to the family and "many friends" of the Brooklyn-born presenter.