Dick Clark

Known as "America's Oldest Teenager" for his unflagging support of pop music and adolescent culture for over 40 years, Dick Clark was a prolific television host and producer whose signature program, "American Bandstand" (WFIL-TV/ABC/syndicated/USA Network, 1952-1989), helped to pave the way for rock-n-roll music to enter the homes of young viewers across America, and in turn, assist in its cultural dominance. Clark moved swiftly up the radio ladder at various East Coast stations before assuming the mantle of "Bandstand" host during its infancy in Philadelphia. His compassion for his young viewers, combined with his determination to spread the show's message of music and fun for all viewers, no matter their background or race, made him a trendsetter for the younger set while he, himself, was in his thirties. Ever-youthful in appearance even well into his forties and fifties, Clark would soon become a go-to host for a vast variety of television programs while establishing himself as a producer on countless others, including the American Music Awards and "Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve." After decades in the business, a stroke seemed to slow him only briefly in 2004, but his legacy as a pioneer of rock music on television assured him a unique and enduring fame. On April 18, 2012, the 82-year-old icon had a massive heart attack and passed away at his home, bringing the curtain down on one of the most prolific and influential careers in entertainment history.