Jerry Springer, best known for his rowdy television talk programs, died at the age of 79.

Beginning in 1991, the controversial host headlined The Jerry Springer Show for over three decades.

Springer died quietly at his home in Chicago on Thursday, his publicists announced to BBC News.

Jene Galvin, a friend of Springer’s and a representative for the family, described him as “irreplaceable” 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 explained.

“He’s irreplaceable, and his loss is heartbreaking, but memories of his intellect, heart, and wit will live on.”

“Just waking up to the very sad news of the passing of my longtime talk show rival and friend Jerry Springer,” fellow chat show presenter Ricki Lake wrote on social media. A wonderful man. “Rest in peace, he.”

Springer was regarded as a “TV icon and such an intelligent, warm, funny man” by broadcaster Piers Morgan.

“Loved working with him on AGT [America’s Got Talent], loved hanging out with him (we lived in the same hotel for two years), loved arguing with him (he loved his politics), loved everything about him,” he said.

With its on-air fights, profanity, and infidelity disclosures, Springer’s chat show became a symbol of low-brow television.

A musical based on the crazy TV series premiered in 2003. Jerry Springer: The Opera played 609 times in London between April 2003 and February 2005 before touring the country in 2006.

It was nominated for four Olivier Awards, including best new musical. Its UK television airing on BBC Two in January 2005 drew 55,000 complaints.