The famed TV producer and “The New Year’s Rockin’ Eve from New York” host died in St. John’s Hospital in Los Angeles, California of a massive heart attack after undergoing a routine outpatient procedure on April 18, 2012 at age 82. His health started to decline after he suffered a massive stroke in 2004 which also impacted his speech. He also suffered from Type 2 diabetes.
His first major television breakthrough was in 1956 when he hosted “Bob Horn’s Bandstand” which he later named as the “American Bandstand”. He continued to host the show until 1989 where he promoted such artists like Jackson Five, Madonna and many others.
Who could forget his countdown to “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” which he created in 1972 and broadcast around the world from New York City. Since his debilitating stroke, Ryan Seacrest took over in 2006. Since that time he attended the show sporadically and once admitted his speech difficulty. His final appearance in the event was in 2011.
Dick Clark also hosted the “Miss USA Pageant“ from 1989 to 1993. He also hosted many other TV game shows including the “Pyramid”, “Scattergories” and “The Challengers”.
The Five time Emmy winner was married three times and had three children from two marriages.