THE PASSING OF DICK CLARK
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine Nolan
And so another legend leaves us. Dick Clark passed away yesterday at the age of 82. He suffered a massive heart attack while having an outpatient procedure.
Dick Clark entered our living rooms each week for so many years introducing us to new and rising musical talent on ‘American Bandstand’. He put the spotlight on them and helped them to climb the ladder to fame and fortune. We also became familiar with Dick Clark as the face behind ‘Rockin New Year’s Eve’ in Times Square each year as the clock struck midnight, the big ball fell and the kisses flew.
Clark came to be known as “America’s Oldest Living Teenager”. He never grew old, perhaps because of his energetic spirit which continued to burn bright even after he suffered a stroke in December of 2004. Clark continued to make a guest appearance on the show that he molded into what became known as “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”. Ryan Seacrest succeeded him as host in 2006 with his blessings. Upon hearing the news, Ryan was deeply saddened and opened ‘American Idol’ acknowledging Clark as a great man. This was his mentor who had a large influence and heavy impact on his life.
Dick Clark was a wise businessman as well. He was considered one of Forbes 400 Wealthiest Americans. He started Dick Clark Productions and created the American Music Awards in the 1970’s. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted Clark into its non-performer category in 1993. He was a game show host and made his audiences laugh and smile with his terrific sense of humor.
The GRAMMY Recording Academy released a statement calling Dick Clark an entertainment icon, “bringing music into the homes of millions of Americans over a 60-year period. His shows blazed new trails in pop music and became pivotal celebrations of music on television, spotlighting both established and emerging artists. His legacy will live on forever.”
The President even issued a statement on the loss of this creative and innovative producer. “Dick Clark made us feel young and vibrant and optimistic as he was.” President Obama conveyed that his thoughts and prayers are with Clark’s family.
AP Photo/ABC, Donna Svennevik, File
Dick Clark is survived by his wife, Kari and two sons and one daughter.
May his spirit live on in all of us!
PHOTO CREDITS: Getty Images, AP, Reuters
