Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action - Official trailer
Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action is set to captivate Netflix audiences from January 7 as it uncovers the disturbing truths behind the once popular 90s talk show.
The synopsis claims: "Jaw-dropping documentary goes behind the scenes of America's most controversial talk show to expose its biggest scandals, both on- and off-camera."
Insiders who helped forge the show into the divisive beast it became come forward in the series, including the formidable presence of Richard Dominick, the show's producer who steered the drama-filled programme.
As viewers eagerly anticipate the two-part expose on Netflix, we delve into the history of Jerry Springer himself.
This retrospective encompasses his flirtation with politics, his ascent to television notoriety, and his sad death in 2023.
Political career
Jerry qualified as a lawyer after attending the Northwestern University School of Law, before going on to become actively involved in politics when he worked for Robert Kennedy’s campaign in 1968.
He went on to serve as the 56th Mayor of Cincinnati for a year in 1977, and in 1982 made a failed bid for the Democratic nomination for governor of Ohio.
After this, he became a local news anchor, going on to win ten Regional Emmy Awards for commentary.
TV fame
Jerry became a talk show host in 1991 with the launch of The Jerry Springer Show, which centred on political issues with little ratings success in its early days.
It wasn’t until the show pivoted towards much more controversial topics, including adultery, racism and even incest, that figures began to pick up.
The show was also known for airing full-blown physical fights between its guests, with many critics condemning it for appearing to encourage such behaviour.
The show ran for many seasons before finally being cancelled in 2018, with Jerry going on to star in courtroom show Judge Jerry from 2019 to 2022.
Prostitution Scandal
Jerry met his ex-wife Micki Velton on a blind date in 1969 and the pair stayed together for 21 years.
Their relationship was tested when Jerry became involved in a prostitution scandal just a few months after their wedding in 1973.
Having just won the re-election in Cincinnati, the councilman admitted to visiting a brothel disguised as a health club.
Jerry confessed publicly that he had paid prostitutes with cheques on two occasions, but Micki forgave him and the pair stayed together for many years.
In 1976, the pair welcomed a daughter named Katie and ended their marriage in 1994, remaining friends.
Sad death
Jerry Springer died at the age of 79 on April 27, 2023. His family confirmed he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and that he had died peacefully in his home in the Chicago area.
Jene Galvin, a lifelong friend and spokesman for the family, said in a statement: "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 humour will live on."
Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action is coming to Netflix on January 7.
