Dick Clark Dies At 82: Footage Of Him Interviewing Aretha Franklin in ’78

On April 18, 2012 the world mourned the loss of legendary radio and television personality Dick Clark. He is best known for hosting American television’s longest-running variety show, American Bandstand, from 1957 to 1987. Regarded as “America’s Oldest Teenager”, he was 82 when he died.

Throughout his career he also hosted the game show Pyramid and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, which transmitted Times Square’s New Year’s Eve celebrations worldwide.

Upon hearing of his passing, Aretha Franklin was quoted telling Anderson Cooper, “if you didn’t go on American Bandstand you just hadn’t made it yet.”

Check out this video as Dick Clark interviews Aretha Franklin after she performs on the popular show. The year was 1978.

Did you watch American Bandstand? What was your fondest memory of the show?