Dick Clark has died suddenly from a massive heart attack at the age of 82. The famed TV producer and “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” host died this morning.
Clark’s rep told TMZ, that theTV icon had been in St. John’s hospital in L.A. after undergoing an outpatient procedure last night. Clark suffered the “massive” heart attack following the procedure. Attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.
Clark’s health had been on the decline since he suffered a significant stroke in 2004 which forced him to retire from his hosting gig at “New Years’ Rockin’ Eve,” which he created in 1972. Dick has appeared on the show sporadically ever since. His final appearance was in 2011.
Before suffering a stroke, Clark told Larry King he also suffered from Type 2 diabetes.
Clark got his first big break in 1956, hosting what was called “Bob Horn’s Bandstand” … what would later be renamed “American Bandstand.” Clark continued to host and produce “American Bandstand” until 1989.
In addition, Clark also hosted a bunch of game shows — like “Pyramid,” “Scattergories,” “The Challengers,” and many more.
Clark has been inducted into practically every hall of fame on the planet — including 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 Emmy was a lifetime achievement award.
Clark was married 3 times — and has 3 children from his first two marriages. He is survived by his current wife Kari Wigton.
R.I.P. Dick Clark