LOS ANGELES — Dick Clark, the television host who helped bring rock ‘n’ roll into the mainstream on “American Bandstand,” has died. He was 82.
Spokesman Paul Shefrin says Clark died but did not provide further details. Clark had continued performing even after he suffered a stroke in 2004 that affected his ability to speak and walk.
Long dubbed “the world’s oldest teenager” because of his boyish appearance, Clark also was a successful businessman. He hosted an annual New Year’s Eve special and supplied a variety of game shows and music specials to TV, including and the American Music Awards.
The original “American Bandstand” was one of network TV’s longest-running series as part of ABC’s daytime lineup from 1957 to 1987. Over the years, it introduced stars ranging from Buddy Holly to Michael Jackson to Madonna.