Jerry Springer 'should have known better' after airing controversial KKK episode

A Chicago TV critic didn't back down while giving his thoughts on The Jerry Springer Show's controversy, spilling during the Netflix docuseries Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action.

At first, Robert Feder admits he believed the show was "very unremarkable," but the producers managed to amp up its ratings through over-the-top segments. Quickly, the talk show became known for its "trash TV" style. However, the hype only pushed producers to think of bigger and crazier stories to feature.

During one particular episode, Ku Klux Klan members, complete in their garb, were invited on set where they flaunted their ideology. Jerry, though, was quick to shut them down, despite having them on the show. He said: "We're all laughing because we know you're stupid."

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Robert, though, wasn't impressed with Jerry even with the star making it clear which side of history he was on. In the docuseries, he told the cameras: "I'm not sure Jerry knew what he was getting himself involved with when Richard [Dominick] suggested that show. I mean, Jerry was the son of Holocaust survivors. He understood the real danger of bigotry and hatred and to put it out for public consumption... he should have known better."

However, at the time, Jerry stood by his decision. He said in an interview: "In a free society, the media should reflect all elements of that society, not just the mainstream. On our show, for example, we have Klansmen on. We have neo-Nazis on. They killed my family. I hate these people. I hate what they stand for, but in America, what is it? 'I may hate what you say, but I'll fight to the death for your right to say it.' We really believe that."

While Jerry gave his passion to the show, the documentary also centers around head producer Robert Dominick and his impact. In fact, Robert acknowledged the TV mogul's importance, saying: "Would Jerry Springer become the Jerry Springer we knew without Richard Dominick? I'd say absolutely not."

Richard also appeared in the docuseries, expressing his desire to constantly bring the show to new heights. He discussed his whacky ideas and how he led his team of producers to look for some of the craziest shows out there.

Robert added: "I don't believe Jerry understood or really much cared for the longterm direction of the show. I think he was just along for the ride. Everything flowed through Richard. He was the Svengali who controlled the show and who controlled the producers who whispered in Jerry's ear and who made everything happen."