Humans are a unique species because of our collective knowledge of our own mortality. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average life expectancy for males in the United States is 75.8 years. That means entertainer extraordinaire Dick Van Dyke is defying statistics by turning 100 years old this Saturday, December 13.
As he reaches this milestone birthday, let’s take a look back at his impressive career, what he credits his longevity to, and how he plans to celebrate. We’ll also cover how you can get in on the action and celebrate the Mary Poppins actor.
A brief Dick Van Dyke biography
Richard Wayne Van Dyke was born in West Plains, Missouri, on December 13, 1925. He was raised in Danville, Illinois. At one time, he considered being a minister because of his mother’s religious influences, but a high school drama class would ignite in him a love of entertainment.
In his senior year, Van Dyke dropped out of Danville High and joined the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. He served as a radio operator before being transferred to Special Services to entertain the troops.
After his Army days, Van Dyke worked as a radio DJ. He hit the road and toured the United States as part of a comedy duo called “The Merry Mutes” in 1947.
Broadway first called in 1959, for the production The Girls Against the Boys, although Van Dyke is better known for his following role, of Albert Peterson in Bye Bye Birdie.
Many don’t know that Van Dyke once anchored a CBS morning show with Walter Cronkite. But it’s The Dick Van Dyke Show that would make him a household name, and 1964’s classic film Mary Poppins that would endear him to fans for years to come. (Who could forget that cockney accent?)
Longevity is a word that describes not only Van Dyke’s life, but also his career. Thirty years after his first hit CBS show, he did it again in 1993 with Diagnosis Murder, also on CBS.
Throughout his impressive career, he has been awarded six Emmy awards, a Grammy, and a Tony. He’s also received a lifetime achievement award from SAG and been declared a Disney Legend.
Beyond the stage, screen, or airwaves, Van Dyke is a father of four, with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Dick Van Dyke’s tips for a long life
Van Dyke is also an author, and he’s literally written the book on a long-lasting life: 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life was published in November of this year.
If you haven’t gotten around to reading it yet, never fear. The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang actor summarized some of the tips in an interview with The New York Times.
He credits his long life to exercise. He moves his body in some way every day and hits the gym at least three times a week.
Van Dyke also values connection with others and playfulness. There’s a sense of whimsy about how he views the world. He isn’t afraid to try new things such as directing a children’s theater production, which he says helped to keep him young.
How Dick Van Dyke plans to celebrate
Van Dyke doesn’t want a lavish party on his actual birthday. His wife, Arlene Silver, told People magazine how he wants to spend his big day, and it’s surprisingly simple.
“He doesn’t want to do anything,” she explained. “He wants to be in his room watching Jeopardy! reruns with me.”
This is not to say that Van Dyke has not been properly celebrated. The city of Malibu, California, where he resides, is hosting a whole festival for the man, called “Vandy Days.” From November 28 through December 14, the schedule is packed full of screenings, themed events, and costume contests.
How you can celebrate Dick Van Dyke
If geography doesn’t allow you to attend Vandy Days, there are several ways you can get in on the action.
Fathom Events is hosting special screenings of the new documentary film Dick Van Dyke 100th Celebration on December 13 and 14.
The Catchy Comedy network is doing a marathon of The Dick Van Dyke Show, playing 100 episodes to mark the occasion.
And a new TV special, Starring Dick Van Dyke, will air on PBS as a part of the American Masters programming on Friday, December 12, at 9 p.m. It will also be available to stream on pbs.org/americanmasters and the PBS app.
If all else fails, you can do your own screening or marathon at home. Throw on Mary Poppins, and watch your cares melt away. After all, it’s supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
