A new Netflix documentary, "Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action," offers a revealing look into the pandemonium behind the scenes of one of television's most contentious talk shows. The two-part series delves into the on-and-off-screen drama, exposing secrets of the crew, producers, guests, and even Springer himself.

From its humble beginnings as a standard daytime talk show in 1991, "The Jerry Springer Show" underwent a radical transformation due to low ratings. Producers, including Richard Dominick, steered the show towards sensationalism, creating what one producer called "the modern version of the Roman Colosseum." The show quickly became notorious for its on-stage fights, shocking revelations, and Springer's signature, "demonstrative outrageousness."

However, the show's success was shadowed by controversy. The documentary explores allegations of producer manipulation, with former guests claiming they were coached on what to say and how to act. Former producer Toby Yoshimura acknowledges that some stories "went too far," and admits to pushing the boundaries of acceptable daytime television content. The show featured topics like incest, bestiality, and adultery, often escalating into physical altercations, chair-throwing, nudity, and explicit behavior.

The documentary also revisits the 2000 murder trial involving Ralf Panitz, who appeared on the show with his wife, accusing his ex-wife of stalking. Shortly after the episode aired, the ex-wife was found dead, and Panitz was convicted of her murder. The trailer includes a clip of a city council member seemingly questioning Springer's responsibility, though the specific context remains unclear.

Springer, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2023, is featured in archival footage expressing remorse, stating, "I have ruined the culture." The documentary promises a "jaw-dropping" look at the legacy of "The Jerry Springer Show," exploring the complex interplay of entertainment, exploitation, and the impact of pushing the limits of television.

"Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action" premieres on Netflix on January 7th.