1When we think about Disney Legends who hold a special place in our heart and symbolize what the magic of Disney is all about, many of us probably think about Dick Van Dyke. The Mary Poppins star cemented his place in our hearts when he played Bert the chimney sweep.
But it wasn’t just his role as Bert that made Mr. Van Dyke one of the most beloved actors of all time. It was his genuine smile, near-constant optimism, friendliness, and overall zest for life that made him truly a spoonful of sugar that fans can’t get enough of.
Related: Dick Van Dyke Makes Television History at 98!
What makes Dick Van Dyke truly special is that he is young at heart. He continues to love to dance, and shares that love with his Instagram followers. He is also enjoying learning how to play the ukulele and spending time with his loving wife, Arlene Silver, and the rest of his family.
However, the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968) is also very realistic about his age and what that means. The nonagenarian will turn 99 on December 13, and he knows that is a big milestone. He is also acutely aware that it means that he is inching closer to dying.
Related: Disney Legend Dick Van Dyke Makes Rare Appearance For Major Announcement
To celebrate Mr. Van Dyke’s milestone birthday, the band Coldplay created a new song and music video, “All My Love.” The seven-minute video honors Van Dyke and his stories decades-long career in Hollywood.
As part of the director’s cut, the actor spoke about what it means to get closer and closer to celebrating his 100th birthday. He knows that he will die, but he greets every day with a smile and isn’t worried about when his time might come to an end.
“I am acutely aware that I can go any day now. But I don’t know why it doesn’t concern me. I’m not afraid of it. I have that feeling totally against anything intellectual I have that I am going to be all right.”
He also continued to gush about how lucky he had been to have such a long and successful career in Hollywood. When asked in the past about his life in the spotlight, Mr. Van Dyke has always said that he was surprised that he gets to do something he loves every day.
He has also said that he considers himself lazy since he gets to take on projects he wants and just has to wake up every day and act and sing for years. And all we can say is that we are happy he gets to wake up and entertain, too!
Please join us in wishing Dick Van Dyke a very happy birthday!
What is your favorite Dick Van Dyke role? What is your favorite Mary Poppins song? Share your thoughts in the comments!