Jerry Springer, who hosted one of the most controversial shows in television history, has passed away at the age of 79. Jerry was the host of “The Jerry Springer Show” which ran for 27 years. The show invited guests from all walks of life, who were in outrageous situations. The guests would often get in physical altercations while the crowd cheered them on by chanting Jerry’s name.

While the cause of death has not been confirmed, the family has said in a statement that Jerry was battling a “brief illness.” TMZ is reporting that sources have told them Springer had been suffering from pancreatic cancer that was diagnosed just a few months ago.

Jerry died at his home in the Chicago area, peacefully.

Not many people know this, but Jerry was a politician before his television career took off. He ran a failed campaign for the United States Congress in 1970, and was elected to Cincinnati’s City Council in 1971. He became the city’s mayor in 1977, serving one term.

Jerry’s show debuted in 1991, originally focused on politics. However, when the ratings weren’t there Springer and his team decided to focus on zany situations instead.

It became a sensation, and even pulled higher ratings than The Oprah Winfrey Show in several cities. The show finally went off the air in 2018.

Jerry’s last television appearance was on The Masked Singer, where he sung “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra.

Jerry is survived by his daughter Katie Springer and his older sister, Evelyn.

Rest in peace, Jerry. You will be missed!