Legendary TV producer and host Dick Clark died this morning (Wednesday) of a massive heart attack at the age of 82. Clark was best know for hosting the long running television program American Bandstand, game show Pyramid and the New Year’s Rock Eve in New York City, a show he created in 1972.
Clark’s agent Paul Shefrin said in statement that the American Bandstand host died this morning following a “massive heart attack.” Attempts to resuscitate Clark were unsuccessful. According to his family, Clark had been checked in to St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica for an outpatient procedure Tuesday night.
The legendary television host suffered a stroke in 2004, which significantly handicapped his ability to host the New Years Rockin Eve. Prior to the stroke he had told Larry King that he had Type 2 diabetes. He appeared on the show from time to time when Ryan Seacrest took over as host in 2006. Clark’s last hosting appearance was for the 2012 New Year’s Rockin Eve.
Clark got his first big break in 1956, hosting what was called Bob Horn’s Bandstand that was later renamed American Bandstand. He continued to host and produce “American Bandstand” until 1989.
He has been inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame.
Clark has received a total of 5 Emmy Awards for his work, as well as a Peabody Award. One of his Emmy Awards was a lifetime achievement award.
He is survived by his wife Kari Wigton and three children from his first two marriages.
“For now, Dick Clark…so long.”
