Famed talk show host Jerry Springer has passed away at the age of 79.

Talk show host Jerry Springer passed away last night while in his Chicago home. The 79 year old celebrity had been fighting a battle with pancreatic cancer. He had been diagnosed just a few short months ago. Last month, the star was forced to stop working due to the increasing severity of his situation. The spokesman for the family, Jene Galvin, conveyed the deep sadness felt by the loss of this beloved relative and international icon. Galvin reflected:

"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. He's irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart, and humor with live on."

Springer made a decided impact during his time on earth. He hosted the well-loved The Jerry Springer Show for 27 years, bringing news, laughs, and entertainment to people around the world. Springer once said, "All of us, whether or not we're celebrities, everyone ought to spend part of their life making someone else's life better." Jerry Springer spent his life doing exactly that. Through his work and his words he created community in a time when community is often hard to come by. His legacy will never be forgotten.

Our hearts go out to all of Jerry Springer's surviving family, friends, and fans.