Legendary talk show host Jerry Springer has died at the age of 79

Jerry Springer, the former Cincinnati news anchor, and mayor, was best known for his work on the controversial talk show The Jerry Springer Show. A statement from his family confirmed that he passed peacefully in his Chicago home on Thursday morning.

Whilst the official cause of his death has yet to be revealed, his family has said that he was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and his health had taken a turn for the worse this week. The Jerry Springer Show spanned over multiple decades, beginning in ‘91 and even beating The Oprah Winfrey Show in ratings at the height of its popularity.

For 27 years Springer hosted what he liked to call “the worst TV show of all time” at the start of each episode, bringing on various outrageous guests who would often get in scuffles as the audience watched on, shouting “Jerry!” He was also known for hosting America’s Got Talent from 2007 to 2008, as well as his own show Judge Jerry where he utilised his law degree to render verdicts in the TV courtroom. 

Family spokesperson Jene Galvin told local Cincinnati news that “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. He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart, and humour will live on.”