Straight from the WWE Vault: The Forgotten Dick Clark Appearance

As we all know, Wednesday, April 18 marked pop-icon Dick Clark's last day on earth.

Clark played an integral role in music, TV, and believe it or not pro-wrestling. During the mid-80s the WWF/E was in the midst of a surge during the "Rock N Wrestling" Era.

Not only was the company getting on the map by having stars like Cindy Lauper and Mr. T grace their airwaves, but they also had some of their stars crossing over into the mainstream.

Guys like Hulk Hogan and Captain Lou Albano not only found themselves in the limelight, but they were able to help solidify the future of the business that they worked so hard for. Now, Vince McMahon was no fool, he knew that he had something and needed just a little extra nudge to put his company over.

Enter Dick Clark.

Clark was brought in for a special appearance at Madison Square Garden in New York. His role was to present Cindy Lauper with an award for her contributions to the WWF/E.

Now, in typical wrestling fashion, there can't be anything done without controversy. After Lauper accepted the award, she introduced Captain Lou Albano and talked about his achievements with her charity, in turn presenting him with an award.

This led to an appearance from "Rowdy" Roddy piper, who would take Albano's award and smash it over his head. Luckily, Clark exited the ring before more chaos ensued. 

In the end, Clark's appearance was short, but it showed that there was a change in the wind in regards to the wrestling world. Simply put, its one thing to land current stars or celebrities as they are on the rise, it's quite another to have a legend step foot in your ring.

Especially considering that, prior to the 80s, pro wrestling had a negative stigma about it. Most people looked at it as a carny or side-show act and Dick Clark was able to see past that and come out to help the WWF/E celebrate Cyndi Lauper.

Obviously Clark will be missed in the mainstream media.

However, it's nice to say that even if only for one night, Clark took time to be a part of this wild wrestling world we know and love.

Click here to see Dick Clark's appearance