‘Soul Train’ Creator Don Cornelius Found Dead in Apparent Suicide

Don Cornelius, the creator of "Soul Train," was found dead at his Los Angeles area home early this morning. He was 75.

According to a report in The Los Angeles Times, police arrived at Cornelius' home around 4 a.m. this morning to find the legendary television show creator dead, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Times quoted sources saying there were no signs of foul play, but the investigation is still ongoing.

Cornelius started "Soul Train" in 1971, and the show continued until 2006, featuring performances by hip-hop, R&B and soul singers, among others. The show claimed to be "longest-running, first-run, nationally syndicated program in television history." More than 1,100 episodes aired during its tenure.

Cornelius served as the show's first host and executive producer, and he served as host until 1993. According to The Times, he spoke of a movie project he was working on about the history of "Soul Train."

The show's loved creator was famous for closing the show with the line: "... 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!"

Rest in peace, to a legend.