Disney CEO Robert Iger Releases Statement On Passing of Dick Clark

Robert Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company has issued a statement on the passing of industry legend Dick Clark:

"On behalf of everyone at Disney and ABC, we send our sincere condolences to Dick's family, as well as the three generations of fans who will miss him as much as we do.

For more than half a century, Dick Clark brought the best of American music to audiences across the country, creating careers and countless fans for artists on his iconic shows, "American Bandstand" and "New Year's Rockin' Eve." We're proud that ABC was home to those programs and will always be part of his legacy. On behalf of everyone at Disney and ABC, we send our sincere condolences to Dick's family, as well as the three generations of fans who will miss him as much as we do."

Clark passed away yesterday, April 18 2012, after suffering a heart attack. He was 82 years old. He is survived by his three children and third wife.

Clark served as chairman and chief executive officer of Dick Clark Productions, which he has sold part of in recent years. Clark is best known for hosting long-running television shows such as American Bandstand, five versions of the game show Pyramid, and Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve. Heserved as a producer for Broadway's Truckload in 1975. Additionally he acted as a creative consultant for 1982's Rock 'N Roll! The First 5,000 Years.

The 'American Bandstand' host has long been known for his departing catchphrase, "For now, Dick Clark...so long," delivered with a military salute, and for his youthful appearance, earning the moniker "America's Oldest Teenager."

In 2004, Clark suffered a significant stroke. With speech ability still impaired, Clark returned to his New Year's Rockin' Eve show on December 31, 2005/January 1, 2006. Subsequently, he appeared at the Emmy Awards on August 27, 2006, and every New Year's Rockin' Eve show since then.