When it comes to love, sometimes the rules don’t apply. For Dick Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene Silver, the 46-year age gap between them is nothing but a number. The couple, who tied the knot in 2012, recently opened up about the secret to their lasting bond after over a decade together. Their story isn’t just about romance—it’s about friendship, respect, and shared joy.
Arlene Silver: Embracing Love Beyond the Numbers
Arlene, now 52, shared her thoughts in a candid interview with Entertainment Tonight, published on July 16. “We were friends for so long, and when I told people I knew about us, they were genuinely happy,” she said. “But honestly, I was a little scared at first. I mean, there’s the obvious age difference. But you know what? It’s completely irrelevant. When you see us together, it just doesn’t matter.”
It’s clear that Arlene and Dick’s relationship isn’t defined by societal norms. Instead, it’s rooted in mutual admiration and a deep connection that transcends age.
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Dick Van Dyke: A Playful Spirit and a Heart Full of Love
At 98 years young, Dick Van Dyke hasn’t lost a bit of his charm or wit. When asked about his thoughts on the age gap, he joked, “I was lucky that I didn’t grow up!” Known for his vibrant performances in Hollywood for over seven decades, Dick has always been a man who defies expectations. And finding love late in life? Well, that was just another unexpected gift.
“I never thought I’d find someone like Arlene,” Dick admitted. “But here we are, and I couldn’t be happier.”
The Beginning of Their Beautiful Journey
So how did this legendary love story begin? It all started at the 2006 SAG Awards, where Dick first laid eyes on Arlene, a talented makeup artist. “I’ve never approached a stranger in my life,” Dick recalled with a smile. “But she walked by, and something made me stop her. I said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick.’ I had no idea she was half my age—I just knew she was beautiful.”
That chance encounter turned into a friendship, which eventually blossomed into something more. It’s a testament to the fact that love can strike at any moment—and in the most unexpected ways.
Celebrating a Life of Magic
In December 2023, Dick celebrated his 98th birthday with a special CBS tribute called Dick Van Dyke: 98 Years of Magic. The evening was filled with heartfelt tributes, performances, and clips from his illustrious career. Celebrities from across the entertainment world gathered to honor the man who has brought so much joy to audiences for generations.
Reflecting on the celebration, Dick told People, “I didn’t think I deserved it, but it was such a humbling experience. I came home that night and said to myself, ‘It’s going to take a few days for this to sink in.’ I’ve been in show business for 75 years, and I didn’t realize how many incredible things I’ve been a part of.”
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Through it all, Dick’s marriage to Arlene has been a source of immense happiness. “She’s the best partner I’ve ever had,” Dick said fondly. “She sings like an angel, dances beautifully, and we even do duets together. It’s such a joy to share life with her.”
A Legacy of Fatherhood and Family
Dick is also a proud father to four children—Christian, Barry, Carrie Beth, and Stacy—whom he had with his late ex-wife, Margie Willett. For Dick, being a dad was one of the driving forces behind his career success. “If I hadn’t had kids, I might still be back in my hometown,” he revealed. “Like many guys from the Depression era, I wanted to make sure my kids had a better life than I did.”
It’s this blend of personal and professional fulfillment that makes Dick Van Dyke’s story so inspiring. From his early days on Broadway to his enduring legacy in Hollywood, he continues to prove that age is just a number—and love, well, that’s timeless.
