Which American television special, first broadcast in 1972, is hosted in its title by Dick Clark?

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve was first broadcast in 1972.

The program was created as an alternative to Guy Lombardo’s long-running New Year’s Eve broadcasts. Its original title was “Three Dog Night’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” reflecting the musical group that headlined the first edition. Dick Clark hosted the special, which combined performances with live coverage of the Times Square countdown.

The show became closely identified with Clark, who presented it for decades. It continued after his death with later hosts and correspondents, while retaining his name in the title as a tribute. Ryan Seacrest became the principal host in the modern era.

The first broadcast aired on 31 December 1972, welcoming 1973. That date is sometimes confused with the first New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square, which occurred in 1907. The television special is a broadcast franchise; the ball drop is the separate public event it covers.