Dick Clark dead at 82

LOS ANGELES -- Dick Clark went to a Santa Monica Hospital on Tuesday night for an outpatient procedure, and suffered a massive heart attack.

Clark was an American icon from American Bandstand, to New Year's Eve, to the $25,000 Pyramid.

It was the late '50s when Dick Clark first stepped on stage as the host of American Bandstand. In his trademark suit and tie, he introduced rock n' roll into millions of homes and helped to make it respectable. The show became a phenomenon, and Clark a hit maker. He gave artists, like Chubby Checker their first big break, and opened the show to black artists.

The party lasted 30 years from Frankie Avalon to Elvis to David Bowie and Mick Jagger. From the hop to the hustle, Clark's seemingly eternal youth was the only constant.

Clark used his fame to build an entertainment empire -- producing awards shows, hosting game shows, and most famously, helping the country countdown to the New Year.

Clark was at his post in Times Square for more than 30 years. Even a stroke only briefly stopped the celebration.

Clark never liked to say goodbye -- not on New Year's or on any of his shows. Instead he ended every broadcast with his signature salute, "So long."

He had a remarkable career, and the world will never forget this American legend.

Dick Clark is survived by his wife, Kari, and three children.