Quick Facts
- Birth Date: February 13, 1944
- Died: April 27, 2023
- Occupation: TV Host, Former Politician
- Alma Mater: Tulane University
- TV Show: The Jerry Springer Show
Facts About Jerry Springer
As a prominent television personality, Jerry Springer had a fascinating life and career that continue to captivate audiences.
In this article, we’ll explore 27 interesting facts about Jerry Springer, delving into both his professional and personal life.
We’ll also touch on some of the most memorable moments from his long-running talk show, The Jerry Springer Show.
1. Jerry Springer was born in London, England
Though widely known as an American TV host, Jerry Springer was actually born in London, England on February 13, 1944, during World War II.
His family emigrated to the United States in 1949, settling in Queens, New York.
2. His parents were Holocaust survivors
Springer’s parents, Margot and Richard Springer, were Jewish refugees who survived the Holocaust.
They moved to London after World War II and later immigrated to the United States.
3. He has a law degree
Jerry Springer earned a Bachelor’s degree in political science from Tulane University in 1965. He later received a Juris Doctor degree from Northwestern University in 1968.
4. Springer worked on Robert F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign
In 1968, Springer worked as a campaign aide for Robert F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign.
Tragically, Kennedy was assassinated in June of that year.
5. He served as the mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio
Before becoming a TV host, Springer had a career in politics. In 1977, he was elected the mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio, serving a one-year term.
Springer was only 33 years old at the time.
6. Springer was a news anchor
Before launching The Jerry Springer Show, Springer worked as a news anchor and reporter for several television stations in Cincinnati.
7. The Jerry Springer Show premiered in 1991
The Jerry Springer Show premiered on September 30, 1991. It began as a politically-oriented talk show but later shifted to a more controversial format.
8. The show has aired over 5,000 episodes
The Jerry Springer Show has aired more than 5,000 episodes throughout its 27-year run, making it one of the longest-running talk shows in television history.
9. The show was known for its controversial content
The Jerry Springer Show became notorious for its controversial and provocative content, often featuring physical altercations, shocking confessions, and heated arguments among guests.
This format contributed to its high ratings and continued success.
10. Springer has hosted other TV shows
In addition to The Jerry Springer Show, Springer has hosted various other television programs, including the UK’s Jerry Springer: The Opera in 2005 and the dating game show Baggage from 2010 to 2012.
11. He was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars
In 2006, Springer appeared as a contestant on the third season of the popular reality show Dancing with the Stars. He was partnered with professional dancer Kym Johnson and was eliminated in the seventh week of the competition.
12. Springer released a country music album
In 1995, Jerry Springer released a country music album titled Dr.
Talk. The album features Springer singing and includes songs inspired by stories from his talk show.
13. He appeared in several movies and TV series
Springer has made guest appearances in various movies and TV series, such as Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Married… with Children, and The X-Files.
14. He’s been parodied in popular culture
Jerry Springer and his talk show have been the subject of numerous parodies in popular culture, including on Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, and South Park.
15. Springer has written an autobiography
In 1998, Springer published his autobiography, Ringmaster!, which chronicles his life, career, and experiences hosting his talk show.
16. He was a guest referee in WWE
Springer made an appearance as a guest referee in a WWE match on February 15, 2010.
17. Springer hosted a podcast
Jerry Springer hosted a podcast called Tales, Tunes & Tomfoolery, which aired from 2015 to 2018.
The podcast featured conversations about politics, entertainment, and music, along with live musical performances.
18. He’s won several awards
Springer has received various awards for his work, including 10 Daytime Emmy nominations and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
19. Springer was married since 1973
Jerry Springer was married to his wife, Micki Velton, since 1973. The couple has one daughter, Katie Springer, who was born in 1976.
20. He has a passion for philanthropy
Springer has been involved in philanthropic endeavors throughout his career, supporting various causes such as disaster relief, children’s hospitals, and animal rights.
21. The Jerry Springer Show spawned a spin-off
In 2007, The Jerry Springer Show spawned a spin-off series called The Steve Wilkos Show, which features former Springer security guard Steve Wilkos as the host.
The show focuses on helping people confront their issues and seek solutions.
22. He’s made appearances on Broadway
Springer has taken his talents to the stage, starring in productions such as the 2009 Broadway revival of Chicago as the slick lawyer Billy Flynn.
23. He’s a fan of baseball
Jerry Springer is an avid baseball fan and has been known to throw out the first pitch at MLB games, including at his hometown Cincinnati Reds games.
24. Springer considered running for the U.S. Senate
In 2003, Springer briefly considered running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat from Ohio but ultimately decided not to pursue the opportunity.
25. He hosted a courtroom show
After The Jerry Springer Show ended, Springer began hosting a courtroom show called Judge Jerry in 2019.
The show features Springer presiding over real small-claims cases.
26. His talk show ended in 2018
After 27 years on the air, The Jerry Springer Show aired its final episode in 2018.
27. Springer’s net worth is estimated at $60 million
Jerry Springer’s successful career in television and entertainment has earned him an estimated net worth of $60 million.
Jerry Springer FAQ
How old was Jerry Springer?
Jerry Springer was born on February 13, 1944, making him 79 years old as of 2023 when he died.
When did The Jerry Springer Show start and end?
The Jerry Springer Show premiered on September 30, 1991, and aired its final episode in 2018.
How many episodes of The Jerry Springer Show are there?
There are over 5,000 episodes of The Jerry Springer Show.
What is Jerry Springer doing now?
After The Jerry Springer Show ended, Springer began hosting a courtroom show called Judge Jerry, which premiered in 2019.
Was Jerry Springer really the mayor of Cincinnati?
Yes, Jerry Springer served as the mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio, from 1977 to 1978.
What is Jerry Springer’s educational background?
Jerry Springer earned a Bachelor’s degree in political science from Tulane University in 1965 and a Juris Doctor degree from Northwestern University in 1968.
Has Jerry Springer appeared in any movies?
Yes, Jerry Springer has made guest appearances in various movies, such as Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, and TV series like Married… with Children and The X-Files.
What is the premise of Judge Jerry?
Judge Jerry is a courtroom show where Jerry Springer presides over real small-claims cases, providing rulings and resolutions for the parties involved.
Is Jerry Springer married?
Yes, Jerry Springer has been married to his wife, Micki Velton, since 1973. They have one daughter together, named Katie Springer.
What are some causes Jerry Springer supports?
Jerry Springer has supported various causes throughout his career, including disaster relief, children’s hospitals, and animal rights.
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