Hollywood is mourning the loss of famed TV host Jerry Springer.
Media personalities Megyn Kelly, Piers Morgan and Steve Wilkos were among the first people to pay tribute to the longtime talk show host, who died at 79 on Thursday after losing his battle with cancer.
Morgan took to Twitter shortly after news of Springer’s death was confirmed by his family.
“Jeez, this sucks,” the British broadcaster, 58, began.
He went on to call Springer “such an intelligent, warm, funny man.”
“Loved working with him (on @AGT ), loved hanging out with him (we lived in same hotel for 2yrs), loved arguing with him (he loved his politics), loved everything about him. Gutting.”
Former Fox News anchor Kelly, 52, also paid her respects to the television icon.
“So sad to hear this,” she tweeted Thursday.
“He came on my show shortly after we launched and told the best stories about his fascinating life & his deep love for America. R.I.P. Jerry Springer.”
Wilkos also spoke out about the loss of his former TV mentor.
“Other than my father, Jerry was the most influential man in my life. Everything I have today, I owe to Jerry,” Wilkos, 59, said in a statement.
“He was the smartest, most generous, kindest person I’ve ever known. My wife [Rachelle Wilkos] and I are devastated. We will miss him terribly.”
Meanwhile, Montel Williams, who currently hosts “Military Makeover: Operation Career” on Lifetime, said his “thoughts and prayers go out to Jerry Springer’s family.”
The “Jerry Springer Show” host — who became a household name for his brash series highlighting dysfunctional American families — passed away peacefully at his Chicago home on Thursday.
The controversial figure had sadly been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months ago and took a turn for the worse earlier this week.
“Jerry’s ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word,” Jene Galvin, a lifelong friend and spokesman for the family, said.
“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on,” she added.
Springer is survived by his 47-year-old daughter, Katie Springer, whom he shared with ex-wife Micki Velton, and his older sister, Evelyn.
