In a new ABC News interview from his Malibu home, Dick Van Dyke shared personal insights on his 100th birthday, crediting his wife and optimism for his vitality, while promoting his new book on longevity.
Personal Reflections at 100
Following celebrations of his milestone birthday, Dick Van Dyke spoke candidly in an ABC News interview from his Malibu home. Born December 13, 1925, in West Plains, Missouri, the comedy legend expressed, 'a hundred years is not enough,' and aims for more. He credited his 54-year-old wife, makeup artist Arlene Silver, for keeping him energetic and humorous.
Van Dyke recalled his acting debut at age 4 or 5 as the baby Jesus in a Christmas pageant, where his comedic timing first shone. Having achieved sobriety in the 1970s after alcoholism, he reflected on portraying 'angry and cantankerous' old men, contrasting it with his own positive view of aging—despite reduced mobility from a 'game leg,' he still tries to dance.
Recent Achievements and Legacy
Building on his storied career—including Emmys for The Dick Van Dyke Show, a Tony for Bye Bye Birdie, and a record-setting Daytime Emmy at 98 for Days of Our Lives—Van Dyke released 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life. U.S. theaters marked the occasion with screenings of the documentary Dick Van Dyke: 100th Celebration, underscoring his enduring influence.
