Nearing his 100th birthday on December 13, veteran Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke says he feels surprisingly spry and grateful for his near-century of life. “I feel really good for 100,” he told People magazine, adding with a laugh, “Sometimes I have more energy than others — but I never wake up in a bad mood.” He also quipped, “I feel like I’m about 13.”
Van Dyke looked back fondly on a career that spans decades — from TV classics to beloved films. He recalled that back in the day there was talk of casting Johnny Carson in what became The Dick Van Dyke Show. “Fortunately, Johnny and I ended up where we belonged. He wouldn't have been very good at this, and I would have stunk at his job,” he joked, underscoring how fortunes (and casting calls) shaped the trajectory of his career.
When it comes to what he’s most proud of, Van Dyke singled out his role in Mary Poppins. He said that after voicing concerns in an earlier interview about there not being enough quality entertainment for children, he was surprised — and delighted — when Walt Disney himself called to offer him the part that would cement his legacy.
More recently, Van Dyke re-entered the spotlight through a touching collaboration with Coldplay. The band’s music video for “All My Love” features him dancing and reflecting on life, bringing together past and present in a poignant tribute.
Asked what he thinks has helped him reach such an advanced age with spirit intact, Van Dyke was thoughtful. He said he has “no pain, no discomfort,” and admitted he’s “rather lazy.” But more importantly, he reflected on emotion and mindset: “I’ve always thought that anger and hate eat up people inside. I’ve never been able to work up a feeling of hate.” He contrasted this with his father, who he described as constantly upset and unhappy.
