Dick Van Dyke jokes he’s ‘praying that I make it’ to his 99th birthday in December… after cancelling an upcoming appearance
Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke still has his legendary sense of humor intact, even as he approaches a major milestone.
The comedian turns 99 on December 13, and he recently commented on his age when he was spotted running errands with a friend (via Page Six).
He was spotted in Malibu, California, on Monday walking to his car with the aid of a cane as his friend helped him into the vehicle.
When asked if he had any plans for his 99th birthday, the icon replied, “I just pray I make it,” with one of his trademark smiles.
When asked how he felt as he walked to the car, Van Dyke replied with a laugh, “I’m very old,” after having to cancel a performance.
Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke still has his legendary sense of humor intact, even as he approaches a huge milestone
When asked if he had any plans for his 99th birthday, the icon said, “I just pray I make it,” with one of his signature smiles
Van Dyke tied another legend, Norman Lear, by becoming the oldest person to receive an Emmy. Both received their Emmys at the age of 98.
He won the award for Outstanding Variety Special for his 2023 birthday special, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic, but he was not present for the Primetime Emmys broadcast.
After receiving the award, Van Dyke told reporters (via People) that he hoped people would remember him for his ‘laughter’.
“I hope I’ve made people laugh for 75 years. I’ve been in the business for 75 years. I can’t believe I’m still here and performing,” he said.
The legendary comedian looked around the room and then joked, “I’m looking for work, if anyone has one.”
When asked what advice he would give to younger artists, he said: keep doing what you do.
“You have to persevere. You go through tough times and a lot of auditions … but you have to persevere,” Van Dyke said.
“Be patient if you have confidence in yourself, and it’s very important to believe that you can do it,” he added.
Van Dyke equaled another legend – Norman Lear – by becoming the oldest to receive an Emmy, both at age 98.
He won Outstanding Variety Special for his 2023 birthday special, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic, even though he did not attend the Primetime Emmys broadcast
He was also scheduled to attend the FanX event from September 26 to 29 in Salt Lake City, but he announced on Monday that he would not be able to attend.
“We regret to inform you that Dick Van Dyke will not be able to travel to FanX,” the statement began.
“He expresses his gratitude to all who continue to support him, but at nearly 99 years of age, traveling and interacting with thousands of people is more than he can do at this time,” the statement concluded.
Van Dyke previously attended the event in 2017.