Which television program hosted by Dick Clark began its New Year's Eve broadcasts in 1972?

Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve began its New Year's Eve broadcasts in 1972.

The program was created as a youthful alternative to more formal New Year's television specials. Its first broadcast aired on December 31, 1972, and it became closely connected with the Times Square ball drop, combining live countdown coverage with popular-music performances.

The show's full title originally included Dick Clark's name, reflecting his role as host and producer. Clark continued to appear for many years and later participated as co-host after a stroke affected his speech. Ryan Seacrest eventually became the principal host, while Clark's name remained in the title for a period.

The program is often confused with American Bandstand, another music show strongly associated with Clark. American Bandstand was a long-running music-and-dance program, whereas New Year's Rockin' Eve was specifically built around the annual December 31 celebration.