Legendary TV Personality Dick Clark Dies at 82: Celebrities Pay Tribute on Twitter

Popular American TV personality Dick Clark has died after suffering a massive heart attack. He was 82.

He had a heart attack and died at Saint John's hospital in Santa Monica, California, after being admitted the preceding day for an outpatient procedure. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, spokesman Paul Shefrin told CBS News.

Clark, who was called America's oldest teenager because of his boyish appearance, popularised rock 'n' roll music through his long-running dance show American Bandstand.

He started his television career in Utica, New York, and went on to become a successful host for popular shows, including The $25,000 Pyramid and Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, which he created in 1972.

According to TMZ, Clark's health had been in decline since 2004, when he suffered a stroke that forced him to retire from hosting New Year's Rockin' Eve.

Following his retirement, Ryan Seacrest of American Idol fame took over the show in 2006. Clark continued to appear occasionally and made his final appearance last year.

As news of the TV legend's death broke, Seacrest posted a message on his Twitter page, saying: "I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Dick Clark. He has truly been one of the greatest influences in my life."

Clark had been married three times. He is survived by his third wife, Kari Wigton, and three children from his first two marriages.

Several other celebrities joined Seacrest in paying tribute to the TV legend on Twitter.

Sharon Osbourne tweeted: "So sad about the passing of Dick Clark - a music icon & gentleman. He is irreplaceable."

Ellen DeGeneres: "Today we lost an American legend. Dick Clark shaped television as we know it. I'm gonna miss him."

@SnoopDogg: "Rest in Peace to the Dick Clark!! U were pioneer n a good man!! Thank u sir"

Actress Jennifer Love Hewiit said: So sad about Dick Clark. Rest in peace with angels. Prayers and love to his family.

@JonasBrothers: "You'll continue to be an inspiration to us all Dick Clark. Thanks for the amazing rockin years you were with us. You'll truly be missed."

@jimmykimmel: "I had the pleasure of working with Dick Clark many times - great guy. Some trivia: did you know he hated music?"

American country music artist Reba McEntire said : "I will truly miss Dick Clark. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rac, Kari and the whole Clark family. Rest in peace, Dick. You deserve it."