Don Cornelius, the creator of the long-running television series Soul Train, died in his Los Angeles home early Wednesday morning, The Washington Post reports.

 

Other media outlets, including TMZ.com, have reported that the cause of death is being investigated as a suicide. Cornelius was said to be found dead of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Cornelius began his career as a journalist, but delved into television in the 1960s, hoping to introduce soul and rhythm and blues to a wider audience. The show ran for an astounding 35 years and helped introduce America to musical acts such as The Jackson 5, BB King, Aretha Franklin, James Brown and others.

Aside from the music, the show became popular among youths, who took fashion cues and learned moves from the show's popular dancers.

Cornelius suffered personal problems later in life include a 2008 charge of domestic violence.

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