That openness, combined with his humor, has helped shape his enduring public image—not just as a performer, but as a resilient and thoughtful figure.
Perspective at 100 Years Old
Reaching triple digits has also given Van Dyke new insight into aging—particularly how he once portrayed older characters.
“You know, I played old men a lot, and I always played them as angry and cantankerous,” he told ABC News. “It’s not really that way. I don’t know any other 100-year-olds, but I can speak for myself.”
He recently shared his philosophy on longevity in his book, “100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life,” where he emphasizes positivity, curiosity, and humor.
Love, Laughter, and Still Dancing
Van Dyke credits his wife, 54-year-old makeup artist and producer Arlene Silver, with helping him stay young at heart.
“She gives me energy. She gives me humor and all kinds of support,” he said.
Born in West Plains, Missouri, in 1925 and raised in Danville, Illinois, Van Dyke described himself as “the class clown,” inspired by silent film comedians. He said his love of performing began at age four or five during a Christmas pageant.
