Entertainment Tonight ET Online ETOnline.com

Ryan Seacrest said Thursday that tonight's American Idol will feature a special tribute to Hollywood icon Dick Clark, who passed away Wednesday at age 82. 

VIDEO: Dick Clark on His Most Memorable New Year

Seacrest -- who briefly mentioned the death of his mentor on Wednesday's Idol -- announced that a larger tribute would be airing tonight. "We're putting together a tribute for Dick Clark on @AmericanIdol tonight...just talked to @dizzyfeet," he tweeted. 

PICS: Legend Dick Clark & Music's Biggest Names

Seacrest began Wednesday's American Idol by saying: "We can't begin tonight's show without acknowledging the passing of a television pioneer and my dear friend, Dick Clark. Without Dick, a show like this would not exist. He will be missed greatly. Our thoughts and our prayers go out to his family,"

RELATED: Dick Clark's Best 'New Year's Rockin' Eve' Moments

The Idol host then added: "I know that he's in a better place. Hey, let's get on with the show, OK?' You got it, boss."