Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest. AP Photo/Eric Jamison.
During a touching tribute to Dick Clark and American Bandstand during last night’s Daytime Emmy Awards show, both Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest gave credit to Dick Clark for the success of American Idol. “Without Dick Clark, there would be no American Idol,” Cowell said during a tribute video montage. “You’re the man,” he added. Ryan Seacrest echoed Cowell’s sentiments by saying, “Dick Clark’s American Bandstand did more for music than any other show. Bandstand performers are still packing them in.”
Ryan Seacrest credits Dick Clark for success of "Idol." AP.
American Bandstand aired for 40 years and jump started the careers of giant superstars, such as The Jackson 5, Cyndi Lauper, The Beach Boys, Cher and Chubby Checker. Last night many of the stars whose careers were launched on American Bandstand joined together for a touching tribute to Dick Clark, who was on hand for the awards. The Spinners, Marie Osmond, Tony Orlando and Chubby Checker all performed live for the musical tribute. A video montage featuring Garth Brooks, Simon Cowell, Cher, Donny Osmond, Frankie Avalon and Barry Manilow followed. The love fest was directed at Dick Clark for his amazing contributions to television and the world of music. Cher said, “We knew we arrived when we did your show.” Donny Osmond stated that Dick Clark has always been an inspiration and a mentor to him. Frankie Avalon added, “If not for American Bandstand, I wouldn’t have had a career that’s spanned 53 years.” Ryan Seacrest worked with Dick Clark during Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Special and chimed in, “If I lived to be 300, I could never fill your shoes.”
Dick Clark becomes emotional at Daytime Emmys. AP.
Dick Clark was touched and moved to tears by the tribute. Clearly overcome with emotion, Clark thanked everyone by saying, “I want to thank all the artists and kids for keeping American Bandstand on the air for almost 40 years." The audience awarded Dick Clark with a rousing standing ovation.
For a list of Daytime Emmy Award winners, click here.
Recent articles you might find of interest:
Remembering Michael Jackson: TV reports and images shocked fans
Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner and Kristen Stewart join Jimmy Kimmel for primetime special
Bret Michaels returns to TV to rock with Miley Cyrus on GMA
Cheryl Burke and Tony Dovolani from ‘Dancing With the Stars’ talk about ‘Toy Story 3'
Do you want to stay in-the-know? Then sign up to get my articles personally delivered to your in-box. Just click on SUBSCRIBE, and you'll stay up-to-the-minute with your favorite TV shows and stars. I'm also the 19 Kids & Counting National Examiner, so if you're a fan of the Duggar family, please check it out.
Comments