I’m not sure how Larry King live is viewed across America (we don’t get it here in New Zealand), although Wiki says 46% of Americans had an unfavorable opinion of him, but I suspect that more people have that opinion of his possible replacement Ryan Seacrest.

A source from within CNN says that 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.”

MSNBC

CNN has made no official statement about Ryan’s possible employment, but MSNBC has another ‘source’ saying that this isn’t true.

This is following hot on the heels of reports that American Idol is reaching the end of it’s run. After 7 seasons on television, the show is losing viewers. While it still rates well, I suspect that people aren’t really interested. It’s not water cooler conversation anymore, people just don’t seem interested in who wins the contest now. I also think that for the winner, it is not a stepping stone for a great career like it was for early Idol winners like Kelly Clarkson – they just don’t seem to be as successful as they have been in the early seasons.

There’s no word on whether Seacrest will leave his radio show if he takes over from Larry King, but it is possible he might do both. He’ll probably just take a nap between shows.