Legendary Talk Show Host Jerry Springer Passes Away at 79

Longtime legendary talk show host Jerry Springer has died. He was 79.

His family confirmed the news, sharing that Springer died peacefully Thursday in his Chicago suburb home after a “brief illness.”

“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.”

The statement continued, “Funeral services and a memorial gathering are currently being developed. To remember Jerry, the family asks that in lieu of flowers you consider following his spirit and make a donation or commit to an act of kindness to someone in need or a worthy advocacy organization. As he always said, ‘Take care of yourself, and each other.'”

Springer is best known for his iconic yet controversial talk show, “The Jerry Springer Show,” which ran in syndication for 28 seasons from 1991 to 2018. Crowned the king of “trash tv,” Jerry also starred in the reality TV series Judge Jerry following the end of his talk show.

Before his tv career, the Cincinnati native served as the city’s 56th mayor in the late 70s.