
In 1957, America was thriving under Dwight Eisenhower’s presidency, and television was quickly becoming a major part of daily life. It was during this vibrant time that 32-year-old Dick Van Dyke made his television debut on The Phil Silvers Show.
Van Dyke’s early TV career saw him make memorable appearances on shows like Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Look Up and Live, and The Jack Benny Program. However, it was in 1964 that he truly became a household name with his iconic role in Walt Disney’s Mary Poppins, where he starred alongside the legendary Julie Andrews.
This magical performance paved the way for The Dick Van Dyke Show and launched a career that would dazzle audiences for eight incredible decades.
This weekend, the Disney Legend reached another milestone, becoming the oldest person ever to win an Emmy Award at the age of 98. He was honored with a Creative Arts Emmy for Outstanding Variety Series for Dick Van Dyke: 98 Years of Magic.
After his historic win, the beloved actor spoke with the media and shared his thoughts on his remarkable career. When asked how he wanted fans to remember him, Van Dyke responded with his signature humor:
“For laughter, for making people laugh for 75 years. I’ve been in the business for 75 years. I can’t believe I’m still here and performing. I’m looking for work if anybody is asking.”
While Van Dyke’s comment about seeking work might have been light-hearted, there’s a kernel of truth to it. The actor has continued to grace screens well into his 90s. His recent projects include a delightful appearance in Mary Poppins Returns (2018) and lending his voice to The Simpsons. He’s also gearing up for his role in Capture the Flag, a film featuring John Amos and Louis Gossett Jr.
At 98, Van Dyke humorously addressed the topic of his own mortality, sharing:
“I invited everyone to my memorial. I don’t have a date yet, but I’m not feeling too well about it.”
With four Emmys under his belt, Van Dyke is just one Oscar away from achieving EGOT status—Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. He joked that his Oscar might come “posthumously,” adding a playful touch to his reflections.
Van Dyke wrapped up the evening by offering some sage advice for aspiring actors:
“You have to stick with it. You’ll go through hard times and many auditions, but you must stay with it. Be patient, but have confidence in yourself. It’s very important to believe that you can do it. I don’t know how I did it, to tell you the truth.”
With 98 years of life and 75 years of stellar show business, Dick Van Dyke’s legacy is one of joy, laughter, and enduring talent. His contributions to entertainment, especially through his beloved Disney roles, have left an indelible mark on audiences around the world.
What’s your favorite Dick Van Dyke memory? Share your thoughts and celebrate the incredible journey of this Disney Legend!