Long time TV host Jerry Springer has died at 79, his family confirmed to AP News. The former Cincinnati mayor had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months ago and unfortunately, his health rapidly declined. Springer died peacefully at his home in Chicago.

“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,” Jene Galvin, a family spokesperson and friend of Springer’s since 1970, said in a statement to the outlet. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

“The Jerry Springer Show” first aired in the early 90s and ran for over two decades. The controversial show played a major role in pop culture and was known for showcasing some of the most outrageous stories on live television.

“I think [the show is] silly, crazy and has no redeeming social value other than an hour of escapism,” Springer said during an 2010 interview with CNN. “There is never anything on our show that hasn’t been on the front pages of newspapers in America. The only difference is that the people on my show aren’t famous.”

He is survived by his wife, Micki Velton, to whom he had been married since 1973, and a daughter, Katie.