Chat Show host Jerry Springer dies age 79

Photo credit: ©Shutterstock / Anton_Ivanov
Photo credit: ©Shutterstock / Anton_Ivanov

Jerry Springer, the TV host known for his smash hit show 'The Jerry Springer Show', has passed away at the age of 79. His family announced that he died peacefully at his home in Chicago after his health took a turn for the worse, just months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

He had joked about retiring while he was still healthy, following the cancellation of his latest show, "Judge Jerry," by NBCUniversal.

Springer had a successful 27-year career hosting his show, which became America's guilty pleasure for wild and raucous TV moments. He also had a political career, becoming the mayor of Cincinnati in 1977 and considering a run for Ohio state governor. Despite the controversy surrounding his show, Springer believed it was "escapist entertainment" and defended it against criticism.

Springer is survived by his daughter Katie and sister Evelyn. They have requested that fans make charitable donations in his name.

His final TV appearance was on last season's "The Masked Singer".

Tributes have flooded in for the "irreplaceable" talent.