King’s Sister-in-law Denies Affair

LARRY KING’s marriage collapse came after his wife SHAWN SOUTHWICK allegedly accused the U.S. newsman of cheating with her sister.

The 76-year-old TV anchorman filed papers in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday (14Apr10), citing “irreconcilable differences” for the end of his 13-year marriage.

Southwick, who is the CNN host’s seventh wife, filed for divorce at the same court moments after her husband, also stating “irreconcilable differences” for the split.

And according to Southwick’s sister, Shannon Engemann, the union began to break down after the blonde accused her sibling of having an affair with King - after he allegedly showered her with expensive gifts.

Engemann tells TMZ.com, “This is so ludicrous. She’s singling me out, but Larry has been nothing but generous to our entire family, including me.”

And Shannon claims her sister threatened to reveal the alleged affair if she took legal action against U.S. tabloid The National Enquirer, whose editors published a story suggesting King was cheating with her.

She adds, “Shawn has left me threatening messages. Shawn left me a message (saying), ‘If you dare sue the Enquirer I will pull out every last receipt that proves you had an affair with Larry.’”

But Engemann is adamant the allegations aren’t true: “I’m tired for taking the rap for things. I did not have an affair with Larry. He’s been like a father to me. I love my sister. What’s happening is not my fault.”

King and Southwick have two sons together, Chance, 11, and nine-year-old Cannon. King is seeking joint custody of the kids, while his estranged wife is asking for primary physical custody of the children, as well as spousal and child support.