A source from within CNN says that Ryan Seacrest, who has filled in for
his friend Larry King in the past, is involved in "serious negotiations" to take
over "Larry King Live" around year's end.
King told The New York Times in April 2007 that Seacrest would be his first
choice to take over the show when the time came.
"He's the classic generalist," King told the Times. "The only thing I don't
know, and I've gotten to know him pretty well, is how versed he is in politics,
world affairs. Does he read the paper? Is he interested in Iraq? Because if he
is, he's going to be very good."
Another source familiar with Seacrest and his involvement on "American Idol"
said that a drastic course change might be just what Seacrest needs. "He's so
serious about his career, but like anyone, he wants it to evolve. Hosting 'Larry
King¡¯would be perfect for him."
A rep for Seacrest said that "Larry and Ryan are close and Ryan does fill in
as a guest host from time to time, but we have no comment on this story."
Another source close to CNN, on the other hand, said, "There is no truth to
this story."
