One of the most well-known and divisive individuals in television history, Jerry Springer, has passed away, according to TMZ.
There was never a dull moment when Jerry presented the popular syndicated talk show “The Jerry Springer Show” for 27 years. The loud and chaotic programme was noted for its eccentric guests, who frequently got into violent altercations as the audience chanted Jerry’s name.
According to a family representative, Jerry had a “brief illness.” Sources say he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months ago, and this week his condition deteriorated.
He passed away quietly at his home in the Chicago area on Thursday morning, according to the spokeswoman.
Before he entered the world of showbiz, and prior to becoming a politician, he ran an unsuccessful candidature for the US Congress in 1970, was elected to Cincinnati’s City Council in 1971, and was elected mayor of the city in 1977. He completed one term.
But Springer’s show, which premiered in 1991, became a global phenomenon. Most people won’t recall this, but when Jerry first started, his show was heavily focused on political matters. Of course, it ultimately turned out to be the complete opposite and a ratings blockbuster.
In a number of places in the late 1990s, Jerry’s show even outperformed Oprah Winfrey’s. The final season of “Springer” aired in 2018.
On “The Masked Singer” last season, Jerry made his final TV appearance as The Beetle, singing Frank Sinatra’s hit The Way You Look Tonight.
His cancer battle reportedly got significantly worse a month ago, forcing him to quit his job. He had been the host of a folk music programme on a Cincinnati-area radio station.
His daughter Katie Springer and older sister Evelyn are his only heirs.
Rest in peace, Jerry.
