What is the name of the annual American television special that began in 1972 as Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve?

Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve is the American television special that began in 1972 under that name.

The program was created as a pop-music alternative to more formal New Year's broadcasts. Its first edition aired on December 31, 1972, and Dick Clark served as host, helping connect televised musical performances with the Times Square countdown.

The special became a long-running fixture on ABC. After Clark's death, Ryan Seacrest became the principal host, and the program expanded to include performances and countdowns from locations beyond New York City. Its title has also incorporated sponsor and anniversary wording at different times.

The program is sometimes confused with the Times Square event itself. The ball drop is a public celebration in New York, while this title identifies the television broadcast that carries performances and the countdown to a national audience.