Clark passes the New Years torch

'Idol' host Seacrest is 'Rockin''

“American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest is about to replace another broadcasting icon, signing on to eventually take over the “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” franchise.

Seacrest has signed a multiyear deal to co-host this year’s special with Clark before taking over in future years as the broadcast’s solo host.

As part of Monday’s announcement, Clark said he would be back in position Dec. 31 for the 34th edition of “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” having missed last year’s show while recovering from a stroke. (Regis Philbin subbed for Clark as 2004 turned into 2005.)

Seacrest will also join the special as an executive producer, along with Clark and Allen Shapiro.

Seacrest is no stranger to celebrating New Year’s on live TV, having hosted a rival special on Fox for several years through his Ryan Seacrest Prods. label.

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Besides “Idol,” Seacrest also took over the “American Top 40” syndicated radio show from countdown king Casey Kasem and replaced morning drive vet Rick Dees on Los Angeles’ KIIS-FM, which has seen its Arbitron ratings rise since then.

Seacrest has also hosted “The Radio Music Awards” and “The Billboard Music Awards,” among other specials.

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