Jerry Springer, the iconic talk show host known for his outrageous guests and controversial topics, has passed away at the age of 79. According to a family spokesperson, Springer had been battling cancer for a few months and took a turn for the worse this week before passing away at his home in Chicago. Springer’s ability to connect with people and his sense of humor were cited as key factors in his success as a talk show host, which ran from 1991 to 2018.
Before becoming a talk show host, Springer was a politician who served as Cincinnati’s mayor for one term after being elected in 1977. He made a failed bid for US Congress in 1970 but was elected to the city council the following year. In recent years, Springer appeared on “America’s Got Talent” and as “The Beetle” on the last season of “The Masked Singer.”
Springer’s talk show, known for its controversial and often absurd topics, became a cultural phenomenon and lasted for over two decades. Springer attributed its success to its outrageousness and niche appeal, saying in a 2018 interview that “other shows don’t try and copy it. It is so crazy we own that turf. And we aim towards young people.” He will be remembered for his contributions to television and pop culture.
Springer is survived by his daughter, Katie Springer, and sister, Evelyn. His loss has been felt across the entertainment industry, with many celebrities and fans sharing their condolences and memories of the iconic talk show host.