Talk show host Jerry Springer died Thursday at the age of 79.
The longtime media personality's cause of death was not provided other than stating he had a brief illness.
#BREAKING: Talk show host Jerry Springer has died at the age of 79.
Springer hosted the popular talk show Jerry Springer from 1991 until 2018 and served as mayor of Cincinnati in 1977.https://t.co/q56TfDkofC
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) April 27, 2023
“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, the spokesman for the family.
“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on,” the statement continued.
Jerry Springer Dead: Talk Show Host Was 79 – The Hollywood Reporter https://t.co/9KSSN0MOGg
— David Blackwell (@enterlinemedia) April 27, 2023
“Jerry Springer was much more than a talk show host who redefined television. He was a savvy politician, pop cultural icon, and devout and loyal friend who was most proud when he spoke up for the marginalized and unrepresented," NBCUniversal, which distributed Springer's show, said in a statement.
"He connected equally with both the powerful and the man on the street. Strangers would open up to him and he loved nothing more than to give them a voice. We deeply mourn his loss and are fortunate to have been partners in a career that was truly astounding and a life that emulated the very best of us," it added.
Did Jerry hint he was sick? Springer said he wanted to 'retire while I'm still healthy' https://t.co/FVQmRgatiD pic.twitter.com/beK2hOQs2K
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) April 28, 2023
"Springer was known for hosting the smash hit 'The Jerry Springer Show' for 27 years, becoming America's guilty pleasure for wild and raucous TV moments," the Daily Mail noted.
"He also had a wide-ranging political career, even becoming the mayor of Cincinnati in 1977 - and even considered a run for Ohio state governor," it added.
The controversial television host was well-known for his wild program that often ended with guests throwing punches or other wild controversies.
The loss of the media giant whose program ran nearly three decades marks the end of an era for one of the best-known daily programs from the late 20th century.
His TV moments will continue to entertain viewers for years to come as the world mourns the loss of Springer's unique voice.