Dick Clark, former host of Miss USA and Miss Universe, dies at 82

Dick Clark,  famed TV producer and "New Year's Rockin' Eve" host -- died from a massive heart attack this morning, TMZ has learned. Clark's rep tells TMZ, the TV icon had been in St. John's hospital in L.A. after undergoing an outpatient procedure last night. Clark suffered the "massive" heart attack following the procedure. Attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. Clark was 82.

Clark got his first big break in 1956, hosting what was called "Bob Horn's Bandstand" ... what would later be renamed "American Bandstand." Clark continued to host and produce "American Bandstand" until 1989. He hosted the "Miss USA" telecast from 1989-93 and "Miss Universe" from 1990-93. In addition, Clark also hosted a bunch of game shows -- like "Pyramid," "Scattergories," "The Challengers," and many more.

The President of Miss Universe Paula Shugart, who started working for Dick Clark Productions in 1985, tells TMZ, Dick "gave me my first break in TV. His death is hitting all of us hard."

SOURCE: TMZ.com, 4/18/2012

Miss Michigan Carole Gist, of Detroit, adjusts her crown while seated on the throne after being named Miss USA 1990
 in Wichita, Kansas, Friday night, March 2, 1990. Standing at left is Dick Clark. (AP Photo/Cliff Schiappa)
CLIFF SCHIAPPA / The Associated Press

Dick Clark with Miss Universe 1989 Angela Visser (left) and Miss USA 1990 Carole Gist