As Dick Van Dyke nears his 100th birthday, the Hollywood icon continues to radiate the charm, humor, and energy that have defined his legendary career.
The Mary Poppins star credits his remarkable vitality not to fame or fitness, but to love. His wife, Arlene Silver, 54, is at the heart of it all the partner who, in his own words, “keeps me vibrant, alive, and ready to dance.”
Steve Boettcher, director of the upcoming documentary Dick Van Dyke: 100th Celebration, shared with People: “Honestly, she’s the key to his youthful spirit. Their love is incredible they’re like two big kids who never stopped playing.”
A Love That Defied the Odds
Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver’s romance began unexpectedly backstage at the 2006 Screen Actors Guild Awards, where Arlene was working as a makeup artist. The moment Dick saw her, he was captivated.
“I’ve never seen a more beautiful woman in my life,” Dick remembered. “She walked by, and before I knew it, I jumped up and said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick.’”
That spontaneous meeting grew into a love story few could have predicted. Despite a 46-year age difference, the couple says it has never mattered.
“We just get along so well,” Dick said warmly. Arlene added, “It’s amazing how naturally it works. He made me feel like I could do anything.”
The couple married in 2012 Dick was 86, Arlene 40 and have been inseparable ever since.
Healing After Heartbreak
Their love blossomed following deep personal losses. Dick had lost both his longtime partner, Michelle Triola, and his first wife, Margie Willet, within two years. Feeling heartbroken and alone, he found unexpected comfort in Arlene’s care.
“She used to bring me food, check in on me,” he recalled. “And before I knew it, she had brought laughter back into my life.”
Her love and laughter became his greatest source of healing.
The Spirit of a Dancer
At nearly 100, Dick’s energy continues to amaze. He still exercises three times a week, maintaining a routine of stretching, yoga, and other active habits.
“I’m doing a lot of stretching, sit-ups, yoga-type things,” he told the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast. Host Ted Danson even joked about seeing Dick “dance from one exercise machine to another” at the gym.
It’s that joy for movement that keeps the Hollywood icon so vibrant and full of life.
Counting Down to 100
As he nears his centennial birthday, Dick Van Dyke remains a symbol of joy, resilience, and enduring love. Fans worldwide are ready to celebrate the man whose laughter and music have inspired generations.
But when asked the secret to staying young, Dick’s answer is always the same:
“It’s Arlene,” he says with a smile. “She’s my heart and my reason to keep dancing.”