Jerry Springer has died at the age of 79, TMZ has reported.
Springer was best known as the host of the popular talk show The Jerry Springer Show - a gig he held for 27 years (from 1991 to 2018).
A spokesman for the family, Jene Galvin, revealed that the TV personality was diagnosed with cancer some months ago, and this week, his condition worsened. He ultimately passed away at his home in Chicago.
According to the outlet, Galvin said: "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."
Before his career in television, he worked as a politician and ran an ultimately unsuccessful campaign for US Congress in 1970. He was elected to Cincinnati's City Council in 1971, becoming the city's mayor in 1977, where he served one term.
He would later become a worldwide name with his self-titled show which first hit screens in 1991.
The Jerry Springer Show was known for giving a platform to troubled guests with outrageous stories and an enthusiastic audience that chanted 'Jerry! Jerry!" each and every episode.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media for the legendary TV host since news of his sudden passing emerged.
One fan wrote: "If I wasn't watching wrestling back on the 90s I was damn sure watching Jerry Springer. Man I hate to to hear this."
Another person shared a clip of an episode of Springer's iconic syndicated show, writing: "Rest In Peace to one of the GOATS of hosting, Jerry Springer. Many know him from his scripted famous Jerry Springer Show, but before that, he had serious discussions about real-life topics. Legendary episodes like this clip."
A third penned: "Just saw the news that Jerry Springer passed away. So many of us watched when we were home from school. Crazy how time flies… And how crazy those shows would be! Yet then… 'Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.' Until next time, Jerry!"
A forth wrote: "We spent many a night-shift lunchtime watching his show in the cafeteria. Thanks for the entertainment, Jerry Springer! #RIP."
This is a breaking news story. More to follow...
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