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Dick Van Dyke Teases Age on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" Ahead of 99th Birthday
2024-12-06
On Thursday, December 5th, the renowned actor Dick Van Dyke opened up about reaching the remarkable age of 99 this month during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Joining him was Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who was on the late-night show to discuss their “All My Love” video. Van Dyke, who stars in the music video, didn't hesitate to make light of his age.
Fun Moments from the Video Shoot
Martin, 47, shared one of his favorite moments from the video shoot. When Van Dyke's son Barry, 73, approached him and asked, "Dad, can I turn the pool slide on?" It was a sweet moment as it felt like a son and his dad. Martin recalled with a laugh, "But they're collectively 176 [years old]!" The audience joined in on the laughter.Impressive Ages in the Family
Fallon pointed out that not only is Van Dyke's age remarkable, but the ages of his children are also significant. Van Dyke is also a father to son Christian, 74, and daughters Stacy, 68, and Carrie, 63. He quipped, "I'm old enough to be Joe Biden's father."Dealing with Dementia
Although Van Dyke experiences dementia from time to time, he said with a laugh, "Like, right now, I think I'm on the Jimmy Kimmel Show." Kimmel assured him, saying he also experiences similar things. Kimmel also shared a story of seeing Van Dyke earlier that day and asking him how he was doing. Van Dyke replied, "'Very old.'"Iconic Career and Records
Over the course of his 70-year career, Van Dyke has enthralled audiences with his iconic performances in films like Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He has shattered records along the way, including becoming the oldest Daytime Emmy winner for his role as Timothy Robicheaux on Days of Our Lives in June. In September, the esteemed actor joked that he was "looking for work" after winning an award for outstanding variety special at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmy Awards for his 2023 birthday special, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic. After accepting his award, he reflected on his illustrious career while answering reporters' questions.Low-Key Birthday Celebration Last Year
When the entertainer turned 98 last year, he told PEOPLE he planned to celebrate the occasion in a low-key manner, surrounded by several of his grandchildren. He said, "I'm not much on traditions. I don't think. I find joy and gratitude every day of my life. My wife brings me a cup of coffee in the morning. I get it in bed. I get treated like a king around here."Dealing with the Loss of Friends
While Van Dyke continues to enjoy life, he admitted that his nineties have brought an unexpected challenge. He has outlived many of his friends, including Norman Lear, who died at the age of 101 in December 2023. He said, "I had a bunch of friends there to say nice things, but Mary Tyler Moore, Morey [Amsterdam], Rosie [Rose Marie], Carl Reiner, Norman Lear, all the people I always loved and associated with are gone. So I'm having to make new friends. I'm happy to say people come to me. I don't have to go out looking."Van Dyke will celebrate his 99th birthday on December 13, 2024.