Hey there, let me tell you a story about a legend. Dick Van Dyke just celebrated his 98th birthday with a two-hour special tribute called Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic on CBS. Now, this isn’t just any birthday—it’s a celebration of a man who has spent 75 incredible years in show business. And guess what? On December 21, the man himself made a special appearance during the event to reminisce about his unforgettable journey.
Legendary Figures Gather for a Night to Remember
Jason Alexander, Julie Andrews, Judd Apatow, Martin Short, Mark Hamill, William Shatner, and many more superstars were part of this unforgettable evening. Among them was Julie Andrews, who shared the screen with Dick in the iconic film Mary Poppins back in 1968. Both of them, now in their late 80s, still cherish those unforgettable moments they created together on set.
Dick once told Closer, “As I told Julie, ‘If I’m not enjoying myself, I stink. If I’m having fun, I’m pretty good.’” He went on to say, “We just enjoyed ourselves.” That’s the kind of attitude that has kept Dick Van Dyke at the top of his game for so many decades.
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Looking Back on an Incredible Career
Before the star-studded tribute, Dick, who turned 98 on December 13, took some time to reflect on his extraordinary career and his excitement for the big night. This wasn’t just any birthday celebration—it was a celebration of a lifetime in the entertainment industry.
“I started with CBS under contract in 1955 with the CBS morning show, then The Dick Van Dyke Show and Diagnosis Murder,” Dick shared with Closer Weekly. “I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years, and I couldn’t be prouder. I’m incredibly honored that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!”
Lessons Learned: Embracing the Present
The Television Hall of Fame inductee revealed some profound insights about life and aging. “I realize I don’t have a future, which makes me much more eager to live in the present,” he told Closer just days before the celebration.
Dick continues to defy the odds with his boundless energy and positive outlook, something he showcased earlier this year when he competed on The Masked Singer. He credits his wife, Arlene Silver, for keeping him active and performing after more than seven decades in the spotlight.
“I learned all the music he knows so I can keep him singing,” Arlene told People in February, referring to their duets at home. “Every show tune, every standard. I know all of them now, and I didn’t know any of them before.”
What’s Next for Dick Van Dyke?
Despite his long and illustrious career, Dick isn’t slowing down anytime soon. “I’m old enough to do King Lear, so I might take a shot at Shakespeare,” he said. “Emotionally, I’m about 13. I didn’t know I was going to be as lucky as I have been. I just hoped to make a living.”
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Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic airs on Thursday, December 21, at 9 p.m. EST on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+.
