Dick Clark (1929-2012)

From CBS News

Today on my way home from work we learned that Dick Clark, American entertainment pioneer passed away at the age of 82 from a heart attack.  Dick Clark is one of those guys no matter how old (or young) you are, you remember him from SOMETHING on television.  Most recently, the only thing he did was make an appearance on "Dick Clark's New Years Rockin' Eve" (including this most recent year).  Some of the youngest television watchers might wonder who this Dick Clark guy was as they stayed up past their bedtimes on December 31st, but they all have seen him.

Older folks, including under-30s like myself (although I can only say that for another year and change...uh oh......) remember Clark from the $25,000 Pyramid, and the myriad of Hollywood blooper specials and award shows that he either hosted, produced, or both.  Any child of the 80s has to remember the "Mystery 7's" and "HERE IS YOUR FIRST SUBJECT...GO!"  I even played a version of Pyramid in one of my classes last year.  He was known as the "world's oldest teenager" because of his enthusiasm on camera, going all the way back to one of his first forays on television: American Bandstand, which introduced many well known musical acts into the mainstream, very much like what Ed Sullivan used to do.

Clark hosted New Years Eve from the epicenter of Times Square every year until he suffered a stroke in 2004.  He returned to the show in 2005, bringing on Ryan Seacrest as co-host and executive producer.  He continued to make appearances, with more and more increasing roles until this past year, which would end up being his last.  We will always remember Dick Clark for his ageless enthusiasm and love for his life and work.  Dick Clark, we at Caputo's Corner salute you.

Here is a $100,000 Pyramid clip for you to enjoy in honor of Mr. Clark.