Let’s dive into the life and love story of one of Hollywood’s most beloved icons, Dick Van Dyke. For decades, Dick was married to Margie Willet, a partnership that lasted 36 years until they parted ways in 1984. But love found him again, this time in the form of Arlene Silver, a vibrant and talented woman who captured his heart. In 2012, Dick and Arlene tied the knot, proving that love can strike at any age.
The Magical Meeting: How Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver Crossed Paths
It all began at the prestigious SAG Awards in 2006. Arlene Silver, a skilled makeup artist at the time, recalls the moment vividly. "I remember seeing Dick at the catering table with his signature bow tie and that disarming smile," she reminisced in a 2013 interview with HuffPost. "When I sat down, there he was, right next to me. He introduced himself with such charm—‘Hi, I’m Dick.’ And guess what? My first question to him was, ‘Weren’t you in Mary Poppins?’" It was a meeting that set the stage for something extraordinary.
At first, their connection was purely platonic. "I didn’t realize how deep our bond was becoming," Arlene admitted. "I would visit him after work, always careful not to intrude. But little did I know, Dick was eagerly waiting for my arrival each day. It was a friendship that slowly blossomed into something much more meaningful." Their romance officially began about a year before their wedding in 2012, marking the start of a beautiful chapter in their lives.
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Fun Fact: Dick and Arlene have been together for over a decade, proving that age is just a number when it comes to love.
Love at First Marriage: Arlene Silver's Journey to Finding Her Prince
For Arlene Silver, her union with Dick Van Dyke is her first and only marriage. "I’ve never been married before, so this is truly a dream come true," she confessed with joy. "Dick isn’t just the perfect human being; he’s also the perfect partner. I’ve been through my fair share of frogs, but finally, I’ve found my prince." Their partnership is built on mutual respect, admiration, and an undeniable chemistry that lights up every room they enter.
A Look Back: Dick Van Dyke's First Marriage
Dick’s first marriage to Margie Willet was a long-standing institution in Hollywood, lasting from 1948 to 1984. However, life took unexpected turns. In 1976, while still married to Margie, Dick developed feelings for actress Michelle Triola Marvin. "She was feisty, intelligent, and understood the showbiz world inside out," Dick revealed in a 2020 interview with Closer Weekly. This revelation eventually led to the end of his marriage with Margie, with whom he shared four children—Christian, Barry, Carrie Beth, and Stacey.
Though Dick and Michelle discussed marriage, they never set a date. Tragically, Michelle passed away in 2009 after battling lung cancer. "When she asked if she was going to die, I pretended I didn’t know—it was the hardest acting I’ve ever done," Dick admitted. After her passing, Dick believed love had left him for good—until Arlene entered his life.
A decade into their marriage, Arlene continues to be Dick’s rock. In December 2023, she stood proudly by his side as Hollywood celebrated his remarkable 98th birthday. Dick has always cherished her unwavering support. "My wife brings me coffee in bed every morning. I’m treated like royalty around here," he fondly told People on his birthday.
Reflecting on their first meeting, Dick shares how he mustered the courage to approach Arlene. "I just said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick.’ I still don’t know where that bravery came from," he laughed. "But look where it led us—we’re married now. She’s an angel who sings, dances, and performs duets with me. She’s the best partner I’ve ever had, and what a joy it is to share life with her."
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