A life that belonged on his own show: Born during the Blitz in London, ex Cincinnati Mayor Jerry Springer served as ringmaster for America's dark side... but his own sex scandals eclipsed even his most wild guests

Jerry Springer, whose namesake talk show blazed a trail for confrontational, 'crazy' television after his political career had been marred by revelations of paying prostitutes with personal checks, has died aged 79.

As host of The Jerry Springer Show, which was a ratings sensation for almost 30 years, the man who was born in an underground bunker in London during WWII became a champion of 'escapist entertainment' - as he put it.

The program was blasted by critics for debasing its guests and shredding family values, but Springer defended the show, arguing that television is 'merely a picture of all that's out there'.

'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 family spokesperson and friend of Springer's since 1970. 'He's irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.'

Springer died peacefully at home in suburban Chicago after a brief illness, the statement said.