Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke celebrated his remarkable 100th birthday on Saturday, a milestone that comes over six decades after he delighted audiences in ‘Mary Poppins’ and commanded attention in his eponymous sitcom.
In an engaging interview at his Malibu residence, Van Dyke expressed a desire for more, saying, “The funniest thing is, it’s not enough. A hundred years is not enough. You want to live more, which I plan to.”
Known for his charismatic performances, Van Dyke's career highlights include the beloved television series ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show,’ which aired from 1961-66, and his unforgettable role as a chimney sweep alongside Julie Andrews in the Disney classic ‘Mary Poppins.’ He also starred in ‘Diagnosis: Murder’ and earned accolades for his theater work, including a Tony Award for ‘Bye Bye Birdie.’
Last year, he made headlines again as the oldest recipient of a Daytime Emmy award for his role in ‘Days of Our Lives.’
Reflecting on aging, he remarked, “You know, I played old men a lot, and I always played them as angry and cantankerous... It’s not really that way. I don’t know any other 100-year-olds, but I can speak for myself.”
Van Dyke’s wisdom about longevity is encapsulated in his book, “100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life,” where he credits his 54-year-old wife, Arlene Silver, for her energy and support, stating, “She gives me energy. She gives me humor.”
Born in West Plains, Missouri, in 1925, Van Dyke discovered his passion for acting in a childhood Christmas pageant, where he played the baby Jesus and broke the congregation into laughter, igniting a lifelong love for comedy.
However, he does share the challenges of reaching his centenary, saying, “I miss movement... I’ve got one game leg from I don’t know what.” Yet he retains his playful spirit, quipping, “I still try to dance.”
