Jerry Springer was one of a kind. When he hosted his iconic talk show in the 1990s, it reminded you that we lived in a much simpler time than we do now. The former Mayor of Cincinnati and world-famous tv star died from pancreatic cancer at the age of 79.
Here’s a quote from a family spokesperson, Jene Galvin.
“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 humor will live on.”
His show was a ratings monster. It was known for its craziness — chair throwing, swearing, hair-pulling, and fights were a common occurrence. But they were as funny as they were predictable, with family members or friends getting nasty on set but going backstage and hugging it out, knowing they entertained America for a few minutes with their zaniness.
His show was on the air for an incredible 27 years, taped in Chicago on the second floor of NBC Tower. Over 4,000 episodes aired before the show concluded in 2018. Who can ever forget some of his final episode titles, “Stripper Sex Turned Me Straight” and “Hookin’ Up with My Therapist,” were two of my favorites.
He was an original — famous for paying a prostitute with a personal check when he was Mayor. Probably not a savvy political move, but he was lucky and smart enough to get out of politics and become rich and famous and an American treasure.
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