The Jerry Springer hoax: What his ‘will’ teaches about estate planning

The video that circulated on social media showed Jerry Springer participating in what appeared to be a Zoom call with five other people. In the clip, Springer reads from a document, stating:

"Joan kept me away from you with the threat of exposure. She did not keep me from providing for you. You see I told her that if I had to accept the life without you she would not get a red cent of my fortune and that you would be named equally on my will in the event of my passing."

He goes on to “reveal” that he's leaving his home in New Orleans to two children named Jordan and Megan, while the rest of his estate – including properties in Mississippi, Georgia and South Carolina, as well as bank accounts and investment portfolios – would go to two other children named John and Misha.

The video quickly went viral, with many believing it to be a genuine revelation about Springer's personal life and final wishes. However, it was soon revealed that the clip was actually from a virtual play called "Blood Money” performed as part of a festival hosted by Tulane University's School of Liberal Arts Department of Theatre and Dance in 2020.

The widespread belief in the Jerry Springer will hoax highlights several factors that can contribute to the spread of misinformation:

• Celebrity culture and public fascination with scandalous revelations.
• The rapid spread of information (and misinformation) on social media platforms.
• The video's plausibility, given Springer's association with dramatic revelations on his talk show.
• The timing of the video's resurgence, shortly after Springer's death in April 2023.
• Lack of context provided with the shared clip.

This incident demonstrates the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking, especially when consuming information online. It also underscores the importance of proper will creation. Even a convincing video of someone discussing their will is not a legally valid substitute for a properly executed written document. In addition, the incident serves as a reminder that:

• Public misconceptions about what constitutes a valid will are common.
• Relying on non-traditional methods of expressing one's final wishes can lead to confusion and potential legal issues.
• The formalities required for creating a valid will serve important purposes, including preventing fraud and ensuring the testator's true intentions are carried out.

Jerry Springer’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated at $60 million or higher. While the details of Springer's real-life estate plan are not public knowledge – which itself may be the measure of a successful estate plan for a celebrity – it's important to recognize that the viral video was entirely fictional and not representative of his true wishes or family situation.

To set the record straight, there are the widely reported facts about Jerry Springer's actual family and estate. Springer was married to Micki Velton from 1973 to 1994. They had one daughter together, Katie Springer, who is reportedly a teacher for special needs students in Ohio. Springer never remarried and only had one known child – not two additional children as mentioned in the viral collegiate video.

One of the key lessons from the Jerry Springer incident is the importance of clear communication with family members about your estate plans. Had the video been real, it would have represented a shocking revelation to Springer's known family members. To avoid such surprises and potential conflicts, consider the following:

• Have open discussions with your family about your estate plans.
• Explain your decisions and the reasoning behind them.
• Address any potential concerns or questions your beneficiaries may have.

Clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce the likelihood of disputes after your passing.

To ensure your will is legally valid, start by creating a written document that clearly expresses your wishes for the distribution of your assets after your death. Have the will signed by you (the testator) in the presence of at least two witnesses who are not beneficiaries, and consider having it notarized to add an extra layer of authenticity. Finally, consult with an experienced estate planning attorney who can guide you through the specific legal requirements in your state, help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your will is properly executed and legally binding.

The Springer hoax highlights the importance of creating a legally valid will. A video recording, even if genuine, would not constitute a valid will in most jurisdictions.

Life changes, and so should your estate plan. Regular updates ensure that your plan reflects your current wishes and circumstances. Consider reviewing and updating your estate plan:

• After major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of children or grandchildren).
• When there are significant changes in your financial situation.
• Every three to five years, even if no major changes have occurred

Regular updates can help prevent outdated information from causing confusion or conflict among your beneficiaries.

The Jerry Springer will hoax serves as a powerful reminder of two important lessons: the need for critical thinking in the age of viral social media content, and the crucial importance of proper estate planning. While the video turned out to be fictional, it sparked real conversations about legacy, family and estate planning.

As you consider your own estate plan, remember that clear communication, legal validity and regular updates are key to ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. Don't let your legacy be left to chance or misunderstanding. Take control of your estate planning today, and create a lasting positive impact for your family and beneficiaries.

By learning from this incident and taking proactive steps in your own estate planning, you can avoid potential confusion and conflict, leaving behind a legacy that truly reflects your wishes and values.