At 100 years old, comedy legend Dick Van Dyke says, 'I want to live more, and I plan to.'
Dick Van Dyke, the beloved comedy icon, celebrated his 100th birthday, reflecting on a remarkable journey that spanned decades of entertainment. Six decades ago, he was singing and dancing alongside Julie Andrews in the classic 'Mary Poppins' and starring in his self-titled sitcom. In an interview with ABC News, Van Dyke shared his thoughts on aging and the unexpected nature of his longevity.
"The funniest thing is, it’s not enough," Van Dyke said. "A hundred years is not enough. You want to live more, which I plan to."
To mark his milestone birthday, theaters across the country are showcasing a new documentary, 'Dick Van Dyke: 100th Celebration,' offering a glimpse into his extraordinary life.
Van Dyke's career has been a testament to his versatility and talent. He rose to prominence with the iconic 'The Dick Van Dyke Show,' which ran from 1961 to 1966 on CBS. He then captivated audiences as a chimney sweep with a Cockney accent in the beloved 1964 Disney film 'Mary Poppins.' In his later years, he portrayed a physician-sleuth on 'Diagnosis: Murder.'
Beyond his acting prowess, Van Dyke is a Broadway star, having won a Tony Award for 'Bye Bye Birdie.' He also boasts a Grammy and four Primetime Emmys. His recent achievement includes becoming the oldest winner of a Daytime Emmy for a guest role on the soap opera 'Days of Our Lives.'
Van Dyke's personal life has been marked by a journey to sobriety after battling alcoholism in the 1970s, a rare and courageous act at the time. Now, in his 100s, he offers a unique perspective on his portrayal of older characters.
"I played old men a lot, and I always played them as angry and cantankerous," he told ABC News. "It’s not really that way. I don’t know any other 100-year-olds, but I can speak for myself."
In his book, '100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life,' Van Dyke shares his wisdom on reaching the century mark. He credits his wife, Arlene Silver, a 54-year-old makeup artist and producer, for keeping him young and energized.
"She gives me energy. She gives me humor, and all kinds of support," he told ABC News. Van Dyke's journey began in West Plains, Missouri, in 1925, where he grew up as 'the class clown' in Danville, Illinois, inspired by silent film comedians. He started acting at around 4 or 5 years old, playing the baby Jesus in a Christmas pageant and delighting the congregation with his humor.
Despite his advanced age, Van Dyke acknowledges the challenges, particularly the loss of mobility. "I miss movement," he said. "I’ve got one game leg from I don’t know what." Yet, he remains active, trying to dance, a testament to his enduring spirit.
A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue.
