Ryan Seacrest: Dick Clark ‘Will Be Missed Greatly’
At the outset of tonight’s broadcast of American Idol, a noticeably shaken Ryan Seacrest paid his respects to Dick Clark, the longtime host of American Bandstand and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve who passed away today at the age of 82.
Said Seacrest,”We can’t begin tonight’s show without acknowledging the passing of a television pioneer and my dear friend Dick Clark. Without Dick, a show like this would not exist. He will be missed greatly. Our thoughts and our prayers go out to his family.” Seacrest continued, pointing to his watch, “I know that he’s in a better place, saying, ‘Hey let’s get on with the show.’ You got it, boss!”
Much like Clark in his time, Seacrest has become something of a music and entertainment mogul. Both however, are best known for anchoring a nationally beloved music-focused TV program. Earlier today, Seacrest paid tribute to his mentor on Twitter. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Dick Clark,” Seacrest wrote. “He has truly been one of the greatest influences in my life.”