Jerry Springer, the longtime daytime television host and former mayor, died Thursday at age 79, it was confirmed.
“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,” said Jene Galvin, a family spokesperson, in a statement to news outlets. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”
Springer died peacefully at home in suburban Chicago after a brief illness, the statement said, according to The Associated Press.  The former talk show host was reportedly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer several months ago….