President Obama Mourns Loss of Dick Clark

News of Dick Clark’s death has touched the heart strings of more than just the celebrity scene as President Barack Obama released a statement mourning the loss on Wednesday night (April 18).

The President praised the late star for his contributions to the media and for his assistance in expanding the audience for popular music along with hosting the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square.

"Michelle and I are saddened to hear about the passing of Dick Clark," he said after news broke about Mr. Clark’s massive heart attack.

"With 'American Bandstand,' he introduced decades' worth of viewers to the music of our times," Obama said. "He reshaped the television landscape forever as a creative and innovative producer. And, of course, for 40 years, we welcomed him into our homes to ring in the New Year."

"But more important than his groundbreaking achievements was the way he made us feel, as young and vibrant and optimistic as he was. As we say a final 'so long' to Dick Clark, America's oldest teenager, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, which number far more than he knew," he added.