JERRY SPRINGER DEAD at 79

Jerry Springer, the former Cincinnati news anchor and mayor who came to preside over the controversial and extremely profitable talk show bearing his name, has died. He was 79.Springer died peacefully Thursday at his home in the Chicago suburbs after a brief illness. “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 lifelong friend and spokesman for the family, in a statement obtained by Variety. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

“You’re rocking with the Cop & Crew Morning Show on the Long Island News Network, 495FM. The laughs, the stories, the news, and the music—all built for Long Island, all built for you. Stay tuned, because the show doesn’t stop here. More energy, more fun, and more of what makes mornings better—only on Cop & Crew, 495FM.”