Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke still has his legendary sense of humor intact, even as he approaches a big milestone.
The comedian will turn 99 on December 13, and he recently commented on his age while being spotted running errands with a friend (via Page six).
He was seen in Malibu, California, on Monday, walking to his vehicle with the aid of a cane, while his friend helped him into the car.
Asked if he had any plans for his 99th birthday, the icon said, “I’m just praying I can do it,” with one of his trademark laughs.
Asked how he felt as he walked to the vehicle, Van Dyke simply said, “I’m very old” with another laugh, which comes after he had to cancel an appearance.
Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke still has his legendary sense of humor intact, even as he approaches a big milestone.
Asked if he had any plans for his 99th birthday, the icon said, “I’m just praying I can make it,” with one of his trademark laughs.
Van Dyke tied another legend, Norman Lear, as the oldest actor to receive an Emmy, both at age 98.
He won the award for outstanding variety special for his 2023 birthday special, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic, although he did not attend the Primetime Emmys telecast.
After receiving the award, Van Dyke told reporters (via People) who hoped to be remembered for his “laughter.”
“I hope I can make 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 a job if anyone has one.”
When asked what advice he would give to younger artists, he said to stay true to the craft.
“You have to persevere. You’re going to 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 tied another legend, Norman Lear, as the oldest actor 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, although he did not attend the Primetime Emmy telecast.
He was also scheduled to attend the FanX event from Sept. 26-29 in Salt Lake City, though he announced Monday that he would be unable to attend.
“We regret to announce that Dick Van Dyke will not be able to travel to FanX,” the statement begins.
“He expresses his gratitude to all those who continue to support him but, at almost 99 years of age, traveling and interacting with thousands of people is more than he can handle at this time,” the statement concluded.
Van Dyke previously attended the event in 2017.