Dick Van Dyke Celebrates 99th Birthday By Seeking New Acting Roles

Legendary actor Dick Van Dyke is getting ready to celebrate his 99th birthday, and he’s not planning on taking it easy. Believe it or not, this guy is actively looking for more acting roles before he hits this incredible milestone. Now that’s what I call staying in the game!

Just a few days ago, on Saturday, September 7, Dick made an appearance at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmy Awards. He was there to accept the award for Outstanding Variety Special for Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic. This special, which aired on CBS in December 2023, was a heartfelt celebration of Dick's 98th birthday. The man has been making magic on screen for decades, and it’s amazing to see him still going strong.

Here's a fun fact: Dick is now tied with Norman Lear for the title of oldest Creative Arts Emmy winner. Norman, who passed away in December 2023 at the age of 101, won an Emmy at 98 for Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s All in the Family and Good Times. It’s pretty incredible to think about these two legends setting records in their 90s. Talk about inspiring!

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During his acceptance speech, Dick took the stage with his characteristic charm and wit. "Thank you, that reception, I cannot tell you what it means," he said, beaming with gratitude. "I’m 99 next month." Now, that’s someone who knows how to make an entrance! And he didn’t stop there. The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star decided to show off a few dance moves, proving that age is just a number for him.

A Night to Remember with Arlene Silver

Dick wasn’t alone in his moment of triumph. His wife, Arlene Silver, was right by his side, and she played a crucial role in producing the special. Dick joked about the possibility of people thinking it was nepotism but quickly set the record straight. "The young lady who got this award, you may think of the word nepotism and I would understand it, but this lady got the job all by herself as producer of the Dick Van Dyke special because she knows me inside and out, and knows how I work, and don’t take no sass from anybody. Arlene Van Dyke!"

Arlene, who’s 52 years young, expressed her heartfelt gratitude. "Thank you so much. It is a honor to spend my life with you," she said. "We got four nominations that put love, heart and soul into the show. To honor you, you’ve created endless joy and playfulness for generations to come." Talk about a power couple!

Legacy of Laughter

After the ceremony, Dick took a moment to reflect on his legacy. When reporters asked him how he’d like to be remembered, his answer was simple and profound: "For laughter." With a career spanning 75 years, Dick has been bringing joy to audiences around the world. "I can’t believe that I’m still here and performing," he added, his voice filled with wonder.

And here’s the kicker: Dick isn’t planning on slowing down anytime soon. "I’m looking for work if anybody has," he joked. This guy truly embodies the spirit of never giving up, even at 99!

Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation

Dick also shared some valuable advice for the younger generation of performers who dream of making it big in Hollywood. "You have to stick with it. You’re gonna go through hard times and a lot of auditions … but you have to stay with it," he said. "Be patient if you’ve got the confidence in yourself and it’s very important to believe that you can do it." Dick’s vibrant personality, honesty, and generosity have earned him love and respect across the entertainment industry. He even joked, "I don’t know how I did it!"

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The Creative Arts Emmys will air on TV on Saturday, September 14, at 8 p.m. on FXX. The following day, the 76th Emmy Awards will take place at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre on Sunday, September 15. Dick was announced as one of the presenters for the event, alongside other stars like Henry Winkler, Steve Martin, Don Johnson, Ron Howard, Viola Davis, Billy Crystal, and more.