Regis Philbin will stand in for Dick Clark to host ABC's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2005.

Clark, who has hosted the show for 32 years, is recovering from a stroke.

"I'm so glad that Regis hadn't yet made any New Year's plans," said Clark in a statement today. "It'll feel strange watching it on TV but my doctors felt it was too soon. I'm sure Regis will do a great job and I'm thankful that he was able to step in on such short notice."

Clark suffered what was described as a "mild" stroke last week.

"It's the greatest 'temp job' in the world," said Philbin today. "I just hope I can uphold the standards Dick Clark has set for this annual event, and I look forward to his return next year."

Ashlee Simpson will host portions of the show from the west coast of the US.