Dick Clark moved by Emmy audience and fans

By Stone Martindale Aug 28, 2006, 19:26 GMT

Simon Cowell - Thanks Dick Clark for providing the soundtrack to our lives.. © Glenn Harris / Photorazzi

LOS ANGELES – Dick Clark’s appearance last night at the Emmy telecast showed just how much the iconic host has affected a cross of generations, even english speaking countries that are oceans apart, with British personality and producer Simon Cowell introducing and praising the American music legend before a star-filled crowd.

The Hollywood Reporter made a good point in that often times, “one has to die in order to receive a tribute from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences -- as was the case this year with Aaron Spelling.”  Luckily we still have Dick Clark to thank in person for all he has contributed. 

Clark is still recuperating from a stroke suffered in late 2004. He was well enough to make an appearance on the Emmy stage for his vast contributions to the television business, particularly the weekly music series "American Bandstand."

Clark, 76, received a standing ovation that seemed to overwhelm him. "Sit down, sit down, please," he asked of the audience.

Clark's remarks were short but to the point. Speaking with a bit of struggle, he said: "The Emmy people called and asked if I could walk out and say thanks. My wife joked, 'Walk? He's just begun to learn to walk again. This show might run a little long."'

He added: "Before I had my stroke, I was thinking about all of the things I had become involved with over my life: music, comedy, drama, game and talk shows, even reality TV. I now realize that I have accomplished my childhood dream: to be in show business. Everybody should be so lucky to have their dreams come true. I've been truly blessed. I thank you very, very much."

Clark walked off of the stage after introducing his longtime friend Barry Manilow.