Don Cornelius, the man who created the classic dance show Soul Train, was found dead at his home in Sherman Oaks, California at 4:00 PT this morning.
According to TMZ, he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
LAPD is investigating the death and initial findings indicate there were no signs of foul play.
The television host closed each Soul Train show, circa 1971-1993, with this famous catchphrase: “…and you can bet your last money, it’s all gonna be a stone gas, honey! I’m Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!” Video below.
He landed on the wrong side of the law in late 2008, when he was arrested for felony domestic violence against his wife Victoria Avila-Cornelius. He entered a plea of no contest at a March 2009 hearing and was placed on 36 months probation. Their divorce was final in 2010.
The iconic television host was 75.
Check out a clip from one of his shows after the jump. His famous ending begins at 3:30 on the slider:
Photos: WENN