Ryan Seacrest has led tributes to Dick Clark who passed away today at 82.

The American Idol host took to his Twitter page to share his thoughts on the legendary radio and television personality.

Dick died of a "massive heart attack" following an outpatient procedure at a hospital in Santa Monica, California last night.

Ryan joined Dick as his New Year's Rockin' Eve co-host in 2006 and looked up to him as a mentor.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Dick Clark," Ryan wrote. "He has truly been one of the greatest influences in my life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

On receiving one of his Emmy Awards in 2006, Dick said he was happy to have had the career he had.

"I have accomplished my childhood dream, to be in show business. Everybody should be so lucky to have their dreams come true. I've been truly blessed," he said.

Jenny McCarthy, Snoop Dogg, Joan Rivers and Seth Green are among the other celebrities to have tweeted their condolences.