Dick Van Dyke, the iconic entertainer celebrated for “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” turned 99 years old on Friday, just days after a close call with a wildfire that threatened his Malibu home. In a humorous moment, he joked about his milestone birthday, saying, “I tried to light 99 candles and set Malibu on fire.”
The birthday celebration follows a dramatic incident where Van Dyke had to be rescued by neighbors amid the Franklin Fire. He shared his experience, recalling how he collapsed due to exhaustion while attempting to safeguard his yard. “I suddenly ran out of gas. I couldn’t stand up,” he said, noting that two neighbors helped him to safety.
Fortunately, both Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene, were unharmed, and their beloved home—part residence, part museum of Hollywood history—was spared from the flames. Investigators continue to probe the cause of the fire, which has already destroyed several homes in the vicinity. The blaze was reported to be 30% contained as of early Friday, with road closures still in effect.
Van Dyke’s son Barry showed determination to check on his father despite the roadblocks, finally managing to see him with his grandson Wes and great-granddaughter Kyla, who shared a sweet birthday message for her grandfather: “Dear Grandpa, I hope you have a great birthday. Love, Kyla.” This visit marked the first time Van Dyke had seen family since the community was engulfed in flames.
On his birthday, Van Dyke reflected, “Tomorrow, I’ll start my first day of my 100th year. Can you believe that? I don’t. I can’t get my mind around 99 because I don’t feel it.” Despite acknowledging some physical challenges, he emphasized that he still doesn’t feel his age.
He planned to celebrate with a small family gathering and expressed an eagerness for the future. Van Dyke humorously mentioned his desire to keep working, saying, “I hope to get work. I’d like to get a job. I could play someone’s grandfather on a sitcom or something. Just to keep busy. I’m not expensive.” He hinted at possible future projects with a major studio and a well-known director, indicating that he may soon return to the screen.
At this remarkable stage in his life, Dick Van Dyke continues to inspire by highlighting the importance of family, humor, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities, proving that age is just a number and that one can always look forward to new adventures.