The British presenter who is set to take over 'Larry King Live' reportedly has a glitch in his work visa which may not clear him until the end of the year.
- August 21, 2010
AceShowbiz - Plans for British broadcaster Piers Morgan to replace veteran newsman Larry King after he ends his 25-year run hosting "Larry King Live" have been pushed back due to visa issues, according to U.S. reports.
Morgan reportedly inked an $8.25 million four-year deal for the coveted role presenting CNN's popular talk show, which features interviews with celebrities and prominent figures. King, 76, announced in June he is stepping down, as reports surfaced that Morgan beat competition from hotly-tipped "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest and news anchor Katie Couric to take the job.
But a glitch with Morgan's work visa has apparently held up the long-awaited deal to put him in King's chair by November. According to the New York Post, network bosses are now asking King to postpone his final show and remain on air until the end of the year.
Morgan needs a special visa that will allow him to work full-time in the U.S., which is increasingly difficult to obtain, according to lawyers who specialize in the field. The "America's Got Talent" judge was previously able to get by with a limited visa that permits him to work in the U.S. for a specified number of days per year.
Meanwhile, a date for King's final show hangs in the balance, although a CNN spokesman has declined to comment about the newsman extending his stay, adding: "No date has been announced yet, there's nothing specific at this point."
