World’s oldest teenager dies at 82

Dick Clark, the television host who helped bring rock ‘n’ roll into the mainstream on American Bandstand, has died at the age of 82.

TMZ first reported the news this afternoon. A representative told the site that Clark underwent surgery on Tuesday night and suffered a massive heart attack following the procedure.

Long nicknamed “the world’s oldest teenager” because of his boyish charm and appearance, Clark also was a successful businessman. He hosted an annual New Year’s Eve special and a variety of game shows and music specials to TV, including the American Music Awards.

The original American Bandstand was one of network TV’s longest-running series as part of ABC’s daytime line-up from 1957 to 1987, and over the years introduced stars ranging from Buddy Holly to Michael Jackson to Madonna. 

Clark had continued performing even after he suffered a stroke in 2004 which affected his ability to speak and walk, which forced him to retire from his hosting gig at New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, which he created in 1972. He has appeared on the show sporadically ever since, and his final appearance was New Year’s Eve 2012.

Zanib Asghar

See Dick Clark’s final appearance at New Year’s Rockin’ Eve here: