Dick Van Dyke explains his secret to longevity.
Dick Van Dyke, 100, Reveals the Simple Secret Behind His Long Life
May 12 2026, Published 11:25 a.m. ET
Dick Van Dyke believes that reaching 100 is simple. It isn’t tied to a complicated formula, a secret routine, or unique knowledge reserved for Hollywood stars. For him, it centers on movement, humor, and being close to those who keep him feeling young.
The actor turned 100 on December 13. Before this milestone birthday, he spoke with ABC News' Chris Connelly at his home in Malibu, California. Van Dyke mentioned that he still works out three days a week with his wife, Arlene Silver. He thinks this routine has helped him avoid much of the discomfort that often comes with aging.
100-year-old Dick Van Dyke is seen full of energy at an event.
“I’m so lucky. I don’t have any ache or pain,” Van Dyke said. He added that Silver is “a health nut” and that their gym visits have made a difference. “I think that saved me from the pain. That’s good advice for anybody,” he noted.
Van Dyke has enjoyed a long career in television, film, theater, and music. He is well-known for his physical comedy and lively presence on screen. He acknowledged that age has changed his abilities but not his desire to stay active.
“I miss movement,” he said. “I’ve got one game leg from I don’t know what. And I still try to dance.”
The star of Mary Poppins and The Dick Van Dyke Show also discussed his new book, 100 Rules for Living to 100, released in November. He wanted to share lessons from a life of performing, bouncing back from challenges, and remaining curious.
“Well, I had a few more things I wanted to say,” Van Dyke remarked. “I wanted to pass down some of my wisdom to the younger generations.”
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Silver, whom Van Dyke married in 2012, joined him for the interview. He credited her with helping him stay active and emotionally engaged.
“She kept me young,” he said. “She gives me energy, she gives me humor, and all kinds of support.” Silver described caring for him as “a privilege and an honor.”
Van Dyke has faced both significant achievements and personal challenges in his life. He won a Tony Award for Bye Bye Birdie, became famous through The Dick Van Dyke Show, starred with Julie Andrews in Mary Poppins, and later led the television series Diagnosis: Murder. In 2024, he became the oldest person to win a Daytime Emmy by receiving the award for a guest role on Days of Our Lives.
He has also spoken about his struggles with alcoholism, sharing that he received gratitude from people who appreciated his honesty. “There was a lotta response from people who were having drinking problems who said, ‘Thank you for bringin’ it out into the sunlight,’” he said.