Jerry Springer led quite the life. From starting his career as a journalist, an American broadcaster, and a politician, before becoming one of the most recognizable talk show hosts in recent times, one could say he has done it all.
Now, new reports are revealing the lively talk show host has passed away. At the age of 79, Springer’s longtime friend and spokesperson, Jene Galvin, shared the news on Thursday morning, April 27, WLWT reported.
Longtime Legendary Talk Show Host Jerry Springer Dead at 79
“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,” Galvin continued.
“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart, and humor will live on.” Springer was at his home in Chicago when he peacefully passed away.
According to TMZ, Springer was battling an illness at the time of his passing, reports suggest it was cancer. However, his cause of death has not yet been revealed.
Springer’s family has asked those looking to memorialize Jerry in their own way to refrain from sending flowers and rather “make a donation or commit to an act of kindness to someone in need or a worthy advocacy organization.” The family then left his fans with a beloved phrase Jerry often spoke to people, “Take care of yourself, and each other.”
Before becoming the host of his ever-popular talk show The Jerry Springer Show, Springer once ran for U.S. Congress in 1970 before becoming Mayor of Cincinnati in 1977. Fourteen years later, his show debuted in 1991.
The show first focused on political issues before it transition to a public forum where people could air their dirty laundry out for all to see. The show eventually ended in 2018.
He was last seen on television last year when he competed on the singing show The Masked Singer.
Springer leaves behind his only child, a daughter, Katie.