At 99, Dick Van Dyke opens up about the joys and challenges of aging, from outliving friends to staying fit. Discover his secrets, heartfelt quotes, and how he dances through life.
Dick Van Dyke on Living to 99: The Joys, Struggles, and Secrets of a Century-Long Life
Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke, just months away from his 100th birthday, has become a beacon of resilience and optimism. In candid interviews and public appearances, the Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star has reflected on the bittersweet reality of outliving peers, his unwavering positivity, and the fitness routine that keeps him spry. Here’s an in-depth look at his remarkable journey.
The “Curse” of Longevity
At a recent Q&A for Dick & Arlene Van Dyke Present Vandy Camp in Malibu, Van Dyke revealed the emotional toll of longevity:
“That would’ve been such fun, and we lost it. I’ve lost a lot of friends.”
— Dick Van Dyke, on his unfinished Odd Couple remake with Ed Asner, who died in 2021 ..
His wife, Arlene Silver (53), added:
“He’s outlived everybody. That’s the curse of living to almost 100.” .
Despite these losses, Van Dyke remains upbeat:
“Well, life’s been good to me. I can’t complain.”.
The Secret to His Youthful Energy
Van Dyke credits his vitality to a strict exercise regimen:
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Three weekly gym sessions focusing on yoga, stretching, and light weights.
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Dancing between machines—a habit observed by Ted Danson, who joked, “You literally danced to the next machine!”.
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Swimming laps post-workout and napping to recharge.
He also indulges in vanilla ice cream with chocolate syrup nightly, proving balance is key.
A Love That Defies Age
Van Dyke and Arlene’s 46-year age gap has raised eyebrows, but their bond is unshakable:
“Everybody said it wouldn’t work. It’s eerie how well it does.” — Arlene.
The couple met at the 2006 SAG Awards and married in 2012. Van Dyke jokes that Arlene keeps him young:
“Having a beautiful young wife half my age to take care of me—that works!” .
Career Highlights & Reflections
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Broadway Breakthrough: His Tony-winning role in Bye Bye Birdie (1960) was “the one that got me off the ground”.
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Iconic Roles: From Mary Poppins’ Bert to The Dick Van Dyke Show, he remains a beloved figure.
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New Projects: At 99, he starred in Coldplay’s “All My Love” music video, dancing just like in his prime .
Social Media & Fan Reactions
Fans adore his zest for life:
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“He’s 99 and has more energy than me!” — YouTube commenter .
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“A timeless treasure. Give us 15 more years, sir!” — Another fan.
Watch Dick Van Dyke in Coldplay’s video here: Coldplay – All My Love (feat. Dick Van Dyke) (embed link if applicable).
Looking Ahead to 100
Van Dyke plans a “big party” for his centennial in December 2025 and is releasing a book, 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide 13. His advice? “Keep moving!”—both physically and with joy in your heart.
Final Thought
Dick Van Dyke’s life is a masterclass in resilience. Whether dancing through workouts or laughing off societal norms, he proves age is just a number—and 99 looks pretty fabulous.
