A staple in many Black homes, legendary talk show host Jerry Springer died Thursday at age 79.

According to WLWT, Springer reportedly died at his Chicago home. A spokesman for the family released a statement regarding the TV icon’s death.

“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,” Jene Galvin said, according to WLWT.

He continued, “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

Springer was a household name in many Black homes with his nationally syndicated television series, The Jerry Springer Show. The controversial daytime series aired on NBCUniversal for 27 seasons until 2018. 

Twitter users reacted to the news and shared how Springer impacted so many lives over the years.

“This Dude really lived his life to its fullest he was having fun all the time it seemed he show was so hilarious and predictable lol RIP Jerry Jerry Jerry,” one user said.

“Damn RIP, I used to watch him when I was home sick from school. I wasn’t supposed too, but Price is Right was boring,” another commented.

“One of my days off from school tv show line up was Jerry, rest in peace,” a third user wrote.

“Damn, damn, damn! This man gave so much to the culture. Every time you watch a Bravo Housewives or Love and Hip Hop reunion, remember he was the blueprint,” another tweeted.

As Blavity reported, a family filed a lawsuit against The Jerry Springer Show in 2019 after a man reportedly committed suicide after his appearance on the show. 

“The Jerry Springer Show was designed to humiliate and exploit people like [Blake Alvey], while the Defendants disregard the devastating consequences that their conduct can have on people’s lives,” said family attorney Brenton Stanley. “We will fight to hold them accountable.”

Jerry Springer