Jerry Springer death: Celebrities from across the world pay tribute to legendary TV host

Celebrities from across the world are mourning the death of legendary talk show host Jerry Springer.

Jerry’s celebrity friends, former co-workers and A-list peers have been flooding social media with heartfelt tributes and sharing emotional memories since the heartbreaking news of his death on Thursday at the age of 79.

He had been battling cancer. Jerry’s family said that he died peacefully at his home in Chicago.

“So sad to hear this. He came on my show shortly after we launched and told the best stories about his fascinating life and his deep love for America,” media personality Megyn Kelly recalled on Twitter. “RIP Jerry Springer.”

Comedian Loni Love shared a throwback photo of her and Jerry, which she captioned: “What I loved about Jerry Springer was the way he connected with people in a unique and authentic manner.

“This is why as a talk show host, he excelled. Condolences to his family and fans on his passing.”

Wrestler The Iron Sheik posted an clip of himself on the show, which he captioned: “Jerry Springer, I love you forever bubba. This video reminded me that you were the legend of the Earth like (me). God bless you forever.”

YouTuber KSI tweeted: “RIP Jerry Springer. You made my off days at school so much more entertaining.”

English broadcaster Piers Morgan wrote: “Jeez this sucks. RIP Jerry Springer, 79. TV icon and such an intelligent, warm, funny man.

“Loved working with him on America’s Got Talent, loved hanging out with him (we lived in the same hotel for two years), loved arguing with him (he loved his politics), loved everything about him. Gutting.”

Jersey Shore’s Mike the Situation posted, “RIP Jerry Springer”, with a praying emoji.

Former host Maury Povich said he was “shocked and saddened” by Jerry’s passing.

“He was not only a colleague but a friend,” he said. “We worked for the same company for decades. He was joyful, smart and, in his own way, a unique showman. I will miss him.”

Jerry was best known for hosting the smash hit Jerry Springer Show.

The talk show aired in 1991 and went on for 27 years before it concluded in 2018 — becoming America’s guilty pleasure for wild and raucous TV moments.

Following the show’s conclusion, the comedian then created the courtroom series Judge Jerry, which ran for three seasons.

He also had a wide-ranging political career and served as the mayor of Cincinnati in 1977.

Family spokesman 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’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely but memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on.”

Steve Wilkos, the former director of security on the Jerry Springer Show, reminisced about his time with the star to Us Weekly.

“Other than my father, Jerry was the most influential man in my life,” he said. “Everything I have today, I owe to Jerry.

“He was the smartest, most generous, kindest person I’ve ever known.

“My wife (Rachelle Wilkos) and I are devastated. We will miss him terribly.”

Jerry is survived by his daughter Katie, who he had with ex-wife Micki Velton, and his sister Evelyn.