99-year-old actor Dick Van Dyke reflects on the ‘curse’ of living nearly a century

Dick Van Dyke, beloved movie star of Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, has opened up about what he calls the “curse” of living to nearly 100 years old.

During a recent Q&A event in Malibu with his wife, Arlene Silver, the 99-year-old actor shared heartfelt reflections on the loss of close friends, including longtime pal Ed Asner, whose passing in 2021 came before the two could reunite for a planned remake of The Odd Couple.

“That would’ve been such fun, and we lost it. I’ve lost a lot of friends,” Van Dyke said.

Silver, 53, added, “He’s outlived everybody. That’s the curse of living to almost 100.”

Despite the emotional toll of outliving so many loved ones, Van Dyke has remained upbeat. “Well, life’s been good to me. I can’t complain,” he said.

The couple, who married in 2012 despite a 46-year age difference, also spoke about their enduring relationship. “We get along so well. Everybody said it wouldn’t work,” Van Dyke said. Silver agreed, adding, “We just care about each other so much. It’s eerie how well it works.” She also joked, “People the same age don’t last.”

Van Dyke credits his longevity and health to regular exercise. Speaking earlier this year on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast, he said, “I’ve always exercised, three days a week. I get down and do a lot of stretching and yoga,” adding that he uses workout equipment to maintain a full-body fitness routine.

Looking ahead to his milestone 100th birthday in December, Van Dyke expressed excitement and hinted at plans to celebrate in a big way.