Jerry Springer Dies After Short Cancer Battle

Jerry Springer, former television talk show host and former mayor of Cincinnati, has died at the age of 79, according to the Associated Press.

Jerry Springer Battled Cancer

A family spokesperson told TMZ Springer was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago and his health took a turn for the worse this week.

Outside of his famed chair-throwing, tabloid-style television show, Springer was also known for his political chops and background.

He entered politics with an unsuccessful congressional race in 1970. He was elected to Cincinnati Council the following year, resigned in disgrace three years later in a Northern Kentucky sex scandal, then was re-elected a year later, demonstrating his popular appeal despite the fresh baggage.

Jerry’s Long and Successful Career

“The Jerry Springer Show” ran between 1991 and 2018 and was known for its profanity-prone guests who often had to be restrained by on-set security guards as audience members wildly cheered, “Jerry, Jerry, Jerry!”

The Jerry Springer Show was the target of naysayers calling it “worst show in the history of television” (as dubbed by TV Guide) and known for stunts and absurdities, “Springer” was nonetheless a force in popular culture for its long run.

Known for chair-throwing, frequent use of expletives, seedy squabbles and lowest-common-denominator comedy and drama, it was a ratings juggernaut. In his Twitter bio, Springer described himself as “Talk show host, ringmaster of civilization’s end.”

The show was taped for most of its run in Chicago, but moved to Stamford, Connecticut,  in 2009. 

In addition to hosting the tabloid show for 27 seasons, from 1991-2018, Springer was the 56th mayor of Cincinnati from 1977-78. 

Springer attempted to make it to a higher office in 1982 when he tried to run for the Democratic nomination for Ohio governor, but he lost.

Following his political career, Springer became a news anchor and commentator at WLWT in the Ohio city before taking on a new role as a talk show host in 1991 when he launched his eponymous series in 1991.

When “Springer” ended in 2018, the late attorney launched “Judge Jerry,” which aired for three seasons. He also hosted the “Jerry Springer Podcast.”

He Was Loved By Many

“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,” Jene Galvin, a lifelong friend and spokesman for the family said. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

He’s survived by his daughter, Katie Springer, whom he shared with ex-wife Micki Velton, and his older sister, Evelyn.

Plans for a funeral and memorial gathering are in development.

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