American TV host Jerry Springer is dead

Jerry Springer, a well-known television personality and former politician in the United States, went away at the age of 79.

After a brief illness, the America's Got Talent host passed away in Chicago on Thursday, according to People.

Jene Galvin, a family representative, verified the information and expressed how "immensely" the loss of the actor pains the family.

“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,” Galvin said in a statement. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on.”

Gavin also disclosed that the family was arranging a memorial ceremony and funeral for the TV legend.

“To remember Jerry, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, you consider following his spirit and make a donation or commit to an act of kindness to someone in need or a worthy advocacy organization. As he always said, ‘Take care of yourself, and each other.'” He continued.

From 1991 through 2018, Jerry hosted the tabloid talk program of the same name. Springer worked as a politician and a lawyer prior to entering the entertainment industry. In 1977, he won the Cincinnati mayoral election. From 2007 to 2008, he also served as the host of the reality TV program America's Got Talent.

Judge Jerry, a reality court show based on arbitration, allowed Jerry to return to the bench in 2019. Three seasons of the show were completed before it was cancelled in August 2022.

He also appeared on the big screen a number of times, most notably in the 2004 action film The Defender when he played a fictitious US President.