Dick Van Dyke Forced to Suddenly Drop Out of Fan Event

Few actors are as beloved by the public as Dick Van Dyke. The nonagenarian has been a huge part of the entertainment industry for nearly 70 years and has appeared in dozens of notable films and television shows. He’s best known for projects like Bye Bye Birdie (1963), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968), Diagnosis Murder, and his own show, The Dick Van Dyke Show.

Of course, Disney fans know and love Van Dyke as Bert the chimney sweep in the timeless film, Mary Poppins (1964). Mr. Van Dyke also appeared in the movie as Mr. Dawes Sr. and returned as Mr. Dawes Jr. in Mary Poppins Returns (2018).

Dick Van Dyke and Julie Andrews in 'Mary Poppins' — Credit: Video Screenshot, ‘Mary Poppins’, Disney

On December 13, Mr. Van Dyke will turn 100 years old, but he has never been one to let his age slow him down. On his Instagram page, he has proven just how young he feels, showing videos of himself dancing and even learning to play the ukulele.

However, as young as he might feel, sometimes age does catch up with a person, and things that were once easy to deal with become much more difficult. And that is exactly what happened recently, causing the actor to miss an event he looks forward to every year.

Every year, Mr. Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene Silver, host Vandy Camp, a summer camp program featuring dancing, crafts, puppets, games, special performances, and so much more.

Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver at Vandy Camp — Credit: Vandy Camp

The actor was set to make an appearance at Vandy Camp, which took place at Malibu High School, but had to drop out at the last minute.

According to a report from PEOPLE, Ms. Silver took to the stage and informed the audience that her husband was sick, and unfortunately, could no longer make his appearance.

During a speech, as she identified herself as “not the Van Dyke you’re expecting,” Silver, 53, told those in attendance, “I have to inform you that Dick is not up to coming to celebrate with us today. I’m sorry.”

“When you’re 99 and a half years old, you have good days and bad days … and unfortunately, today is not a good day for him, and he’s sick that he can’t be here,” she continued.

Still, Silver explained that she was “pretty confident” Van Dyke would be at the next Vandy Camp event “in person.”

Dick Van Dyke after he leapt onto the desk in Mary Poppins Returns — Credit: Video Screenshot, ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, Disney

While Van Dyke might not have been able to be physically present at the event, he did briefly appear during a livestream, much to the delight of his dedicated and loving fans.

Van Dyke was set to perform with his wife and their musical group, Vantastix, along with participating in a Q&A event alongside his wife. The event also featured other live performances and clips from Mr. Van Dyke’s wildly successful career.

Join us in sending Mr. Van Dyke our best wishes for a speedy recovery.

What is your favorite Dick Van Dyke film and television show? Will he always be Bert the chimney sweep, or is there a role of his that you think is more iconic? Let us know in the comments!