Regis Philbin took over hosting the event initially, but it is Ryan Seacrest that has emerged as somewhat of an heir apparent, having his name added to the title: Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest. As much as we all love Dick Clark, it does seem Seacrest is doing a lot of work for second billing. As long as Clark's formula lives on in the DNA of the broadcast it seems the title is appropriate, but it also seems only a matter of time before the torch is passed.
When ABC announced that this year's broadcast would feature a tribute to Dick Clark's 40 years on the broadcast, speculation began to percolate from the rumor mill that the tribute might also be a swan song for Clark's brand. Could this be a fitting farewell, and a subtle passing of the torch wrapped in one? Mark Shapiro, the chief executive of Dick Clark Productions, told the NY Times: “That’s a great question, and the only one that knows that answer is Dick himself.”
Dick Clark himself sounded off on the question in an email. "I hope not," was what he had to say on the matter. We're hoping with you, Dick.
{ 0 comments... read them below or add one }
Post a Comment