The long-running television show host Jerry Springer left behind a controversial career after his death in April 2023. According to PEOPLE, we now know what Springer wanted his legacy to be, and it's more wholesome than you'd think.
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From political reporter to host of The Jerry Springer Show, Springer led an interesting life. The tabloid talk show that covered controversial topics ran for nearly 30 years. Five years after its final episode, Springer passed away at age 79.
The late TV host is back in the spotlight as Netflix announced a new documentary called Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action. This two-part documentary is available now and takes a deep dive into the ups and downs of Springer's iconic show.
Jerry Springer's Wholesome Legacy Revealed
Despite the show's controversy amongst viewers, PEOPLE reported that the people closest to Springer remembered him fondly. His show's former publicist, Gary Rosen, revealed Springer's heartwarming legacy. Springer just wanted his legacy to be "a good father and grandfather."
"The rest—the celebrity part—he said is just ego," Rosen said. "I will remember him [as] a class act, who was a true mensch to his staff, crew and fans from all over the world."
Springer left behind one daughter, Katie Springer, with whom he had a close bond. Katie is legally blind and deaf in one ear due to being born without nasal passages. His daughter later had a child in 2008, which made him a grandfather.
The humble nature behind Springer's television persona is clear to see in certain interviews and speeches. In 2008, Springer delivered a commencement address at his law school alma mater. "I've been lucky enough to enjoy a comfortable measure of success in my various careers," he said per The New York Times.
"But let's be honest, I've been virtually everything you can't respect: a lawyer, a mayor, a major-market news anchor and a talk-show host. Pray for me. If I get to heaven, we're all going."
His peers and co-workers all had nothing but great things to say about the late host after his death. Rosen called him a "very nice guy" who was "low-key [and] understated," according to PEOPLE.
Sally Jessy Raphael, an American talk show host, also mourned his passing two years ago. "He was a bright, funny man whom I considered to be a friend," she said. "He will be missed."
Jerry Springer being a humble family man may not have been on your bingo card for 2025. Still, it's something worth noting when watching the new Netflix documentary of the controversial TV show host.
