Don Cornelius, Creator of ‘Soul Train,’ Found Dead From Apparent Suicide

Law enforcement sources are confirming that Don Cornelius, the creator of ‘Soul Train,’ was found dead in his home in Sherman Oaks, CA this morning. The cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.

Police discovered Cornelius’ body at about 4 a.m. Pacific. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officials believe the gunshot wound was self-inflicted.

‘Soul Train’ debuted nationally in 1971 and ran until 2006. It holds a longstanding claim as the "longest-running, first-run, nationally syndicated program in television history." Many say it changed the landscape of television by targeting a largely African-American audience and exposing R&B and hip hop acts to mainstream TV viewers.

Cornelius was 75 years old. Watch a collection of 'Soul Train' clips, including the famous theme song, below.

[via TMZ]