I have to agree with lugnuts and the other supporters of Dick Clark.
For those of you who have stated that he should pass the torch and all that garbage, you just do NOT know what in the world you are talking about. Furthermore, it shows you haven't a clue as to what he's gone through as a survivor of a major stroke.
For one, Dick Clark's New Years' Rockin' Eve continues to do very well for ABC every year.
Secondly, why do you think soooo many other networks, including CNN and FOX News, do this? Because of Dick Clark. His limited on-air involvement over the past couple of years on the show hasn't hurt it in the ratings.
Even when Dick Clark is no longer part of the show, it'll still do well for ABC and beat all the others on TV on New Years' Eve. Many people tune in Dick Clark because he IS synonymous with New Years' Eve. I tune in for that reason as well. When Dick Clark is no longer part of it, neither will I.