Talk show host Jerry Springer has died at the age of 79 following a "brief illness", his family have announced.
The legendary broadcaster gained worldwide fame in the 1990s through his self-titled show, which was known for featuring outrageous participants who often got into physical altercations.
The programme ran for 27 years - at its peak beating Oprah Winfrey's show in the ratings - and was influential in setting the tone for the genre, spawning multiple similar shows.
Springer was also a former host of Simon Cowell's America's Got Talent and more recently fronted three seasons of a courtroom show called Judge Jerry, which wrapped last year.
Prior to entering the entertainment industry, the British-born star worked in politics, famously serving as the Mayor of Cincinnati from 1977 to 1978, and remained an active commentator on current affairs, appearing just a few weeks ago on Piers Morgan Uncensored to discuss the upcoming Presidential race.
According to TMZ, Springer died peacefully at his home in Chicago on Thursday morning, having been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months ago.
Close friend Jene Galvin said in a statement: "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 said.
"He's irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on."
Springer is survived by daughter Katie and sister Evelyn.
Neil Wilkes
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