- Faith: Judaism
- Career: Actor
- Birthday: February 13, 1944
- Date of Death: April 27, 2023
- Accomplishments: Emmy Awards
Jerry Springer was an American broadcaster, journalist, actor, producer, lawyer, and politician. He was best known for The Jerry Springer Show, which featured guests — real people from around the country — revealing shocking, often sordid details of their lives.
His Jewish parents — Margo and Richard Springer — had fled Nazi Germany and immigrated to the United States before the start of World War II. Springer grew up in New York City and after graduating high school, received a bachelor's degree from Tulane University and law degree from Northwestern.
He started his career off in politics but switched to entertainment in the 1990s with his controversial syndicated self-titled tabloid talk show. In the 1970s, he was elected to Cincinnati's city council and served a term as mayor. Springer became a worldwide sensation with “The Jerry Springer Show” which debuted in 1991 and initially focused on political issues. The show evolved over time and often featured guests who were not afraid of embarrassing themselves on national television and would cover several topics ranging from incest and adultery to politics and conflicts. It was on air for 28 seasons before ending in July 2018.
Springer passed away on April 27, 2023, in his Chicago, Illinois-based home. His death was first confirmed by his lifelong friend and family spokesman Jene Galvin, who called him "irreplaceable."
“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.
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