Springer's 'silly' show

Springer does not watch his show

American TV host Jerry Springer has admitted he never watches his fiery confessional talk show because he thinks it is "silly".

Under titles such as "Honey, I hacked off my manhood", the programme sees members of the public baring their souls and regularly starting punch-ups with other on stage.

The show's controversial nature has made Springer, 56, a household name on both sides of the Atlantic.

I would never watch my show. I'm not interested in it

Jerry Springer

But in an interview with the Reuters news agency he said: "I would never watch my show. I'm not interested in it. It's not aimed towards me. This is just a silly show."

Springer has been criticised for exploitation and making voyeuristic entertainment from public brawling.

But in the interview, to promote a one-off show for Channel 5, he also went on to defend his style of talk show, claiming it represented "real" people.

Celebrity chat

"My show is about outrageous behaviour so by definition everyone on the show has to be outrageous," he said.

"Most of them are not wealthy and they're not well educated, but I like them. I find them very refreshing. They don't put on airs."

Richard Blackwood will engage in 'risqué' chat

Until now, British audiences have been more familiar with Springer's US shows, which have been running on ITV.

But on Saturday, Channel 5 viewers will see Springer front a one-off celebrity chat show.

Guests include TV presenter and singer Richard Blackwood, volatile celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and singers Faye Tozer and Claire Richards from the pop group Steps.

Although the programme is unlikely to create as many sparks as Springer's US show, a Channel 5 spokesman told BBC News Online it would certainly be "risqué".