I don't know what a softball question is. All I know is I have no agenda. I ask short questions, and I listen to the answer.
I never think of access or good will. I just want a good interview. I want guests to be informative and entertaining. I've never been concerned about someone's liking me tomorrow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Larry King emphasizes the importance of delivering value in interviews rather than seeking approval or access to celebrities.
In this quote, Larry King articulates his approach to interviews, prioritizing the quality of the conversation over personal relationships or access to influential figures. He believes that informative and entertaining dialogue is what truly matters, rather than the fleeting concern of being liked or having a favorable standing with his guests. This perspective highlights the integrity of the interviewer’s role in providing substance to the audience rather than focusing on superficial connections.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a panel discussion about effective interviewing techniques.
More from Larry King
All quotes →Those who have succeeded at anything and don't mention luck are kidding themselves.
I like getting to the meat of things. You can't get it in a five-minute interview. I like to hone a person. I like to make eye contact.
I never use the word 'I' when I interview someone. I think it's irrelevant.
I just love asking questions. I love people. It's in my DNA. I'm cursed - and blessed.
I'm 80 years old, and I don't know what I'm going to be when I grow up.
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If I do three interviews in a day, I can be exhausted, because the process of hearing everyone requires that I empty out myself. While I'm listening, my own judgments and prejudices certainly come up. But I know I won't get anything unless I get those things out of the way.