Iconic actor Dick Van Dyke, known for his roles in “Mary Poppins” and "The Dick Van Dyke Show," recently celebrated his 98th birthday. In a candid interview on "CBS Sunday Morning," Van Dyke admitted that he is a "pretty lazy" person by nature. He revealed that he would often come home from a movie or project and simply wait for the phone to ring, instead of actively seeking out new opportunities. Despite his laid-back approach to his career, Van Dyke considers himself lucky to have had such a successful and enduring career.
Van Dyke's career spans over 60 decades and includes memorable roles such as 158 episodes on "The Dick Van Dyke Show," the 1963 film "Bye Bye Birdie," and the 1964 classic “Mary Poppins” alongside Julie Andrews. He also starred in "The New Dick Van Dyke Show" from 1971 to 1974. Reflecting on his longevity in the industry, Van Dyke expressed his surprise at still being alive when many of his former colleagues, including Norman Lear and Carl Reiner, have passed away. He fondly referred to Lear and Reiner as his "two favorite human beings."
The actor humorously remarked that if he had known he was going to live this long, he would have taken better care of himself. Van Dyke battled alcoholism in the past and admitted that he used alcohol as a way to overcome his shyness. However, he has been sober since checking into a hospital for three weeks in 1972. Van Dyke's wife, Arlene Silver, has been instrumental in helping him maintain his health by ensuring he goes to the gym three times a week for a full workout.
Despite his self-proclaimed laziness, Van Dyke's career has been a testament to his love for his craft. He emphasized the role of fun in his success and longevity in the entertainment industry. Van Dyke shared that he looks forward to going to work every morning and feels sorry for those who hate their jobs. He expressed gratitude for the letters he receives from young fans, indicating that his work has resonated with new generations.
Van Dyke's impact on pop culture has been significant, with his work reaching multiple generations. He mentioned that he receives more mail now than during the peak of his career. The actor believes that his ability to connect with audiences and bring joy to people's lives has contributed to his enduring popularity.
In a two-hour tribute special titled "Dick Van Dyke: 98 Years of Magic," set to air on CBS on December 21, Van Dyke will be honored for his contributions to the entertainment industry. The special will highlight his vast body of work and celebrate his remarkable career. As he approaches his 100th birthday, Van Dyke continues to inspire audiences with his talent, humor, and love for his craft.
