Famed talk show host Jerry Springer has died. He was 79.
The “Jerry Springer Show” host passed away peacefully at his Chicago home Thursday, his family announced.
The controversial figure had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months ago and took a turn for the worse 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,” said Jene Galvin, a lifelong friend and spokesman for the family.
“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”
Plans for a funeral and memorial gathering are in development.
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Before becoming an iconic television host, Springer was a politician who served on Cincinnati’s City Council in 1971 and was elected as the city’s mayor in 1977. He served one term.
Springer attempted to make it to higher office in 1982 when he ran for the Democratic nomination for Ohio governor but ultimately lost.
Following his political career, Springer became a news anchor and commentator at WLWT in the Ohio city before taking on a new role as a talk show host in 1991 when he launched his eponymous series.
When “Springer” ended in 2018, the attorney launched “Judge Jerry,” which aired for three seasons. He also hosted the “Jerry Springer Podcast.”
The TV personality’s last appearance on the small screen came last season on “The Masked Singer” on which he performed as “The Beetle,” singing a Frank Sinatra classic.
He’s survived by his 47-year-old daughter, Katie Springer, whom he shared with ex-wife Micki Velton, and his older sister, Evelyn.
