From BlackEnterprise.com

On Wednesday, April 18, 2012, package Clark passed away at the age of 82 after suffering a heart attack. Over the course of his storied career, the legendary radio/TV personality entertained millions as he rang in countless New Years Rockin’ Eve specials in New York City’s Times Square and a perpetual game show host. Most notably, Clark was the host of the classic American Bandstand, which broadcast new and popular musicians into the homes of countless viewers. Among the many greats that were featured on the show; Clark also helped break racial barriers by giving many African American artists their first TV appearances.

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Source: biography.com

TMZ was the first news outlet to confirm that TV personality, producer, “American Bandstand” and “Rockin New Year’s Eve” host, Richard Wagstaff Clark, died today. He was 82 years old.

Clark’s agent Paul Shefrin released a statement saying that the TV maven suffered a massive heart attack this morning.

Working in media from the time he was in high school, Clark had been dealing with health issues since 2004 when he suffered a stroke. Despite the minor setback, Clark went on to host the New Year’s Eve Countdown alongside Ryan Seacrest up until this year.

This is a great loss in American culture, considering Clark has helped many Americans welcome in the New Year for the past three decades.

Rest in Peace.