Dick Van Dyke celebrated his 99th birthday on Friday, just days after a frightening experience escaping a wildfire near his Malibu residence. The beloved entertainer, known for his iconic role in “The Dick Van Dyke Show” from 1961 to 1966, shared a humorous remark about reaching this impressive age: “I tried to light 99 candles and set Malibu on fire,” he joked, bringing a light-hearted touch to a significant milestone.
This birthday comes in the wake of a dramatic incident where Van Dyke needed assistance after collapsing while trying to protect his backyard from the threatening Franklin Fire. He described the moment, saying, “I suddenly ran out of gas. I couldn’t stand up,” before being helped into a car by neighbors. Thankfully, both he and his wife, Arlene, are safe, and their unique home, which serves as both a residence and a Hollywood history museum, remained untouched. Investigators are still investigating the fire’s cause, which has affected nearby homes; as of early Friday, the fire was reported to be 30% contained with ongoing road closures in the area.
Van Dyke’s son, Barry, expressed determination to check on his father amidst roadblocks, stating, “I want to see if I can talk my way in.” Eventually, Barry, his grandson Wes, and great-granddaughter Kyla were able to reunite with Van Dyke. Kyla expressed her love with a sweet birthday message: “Dear Grandpa, I hope you have a great birthday. Love, Kyla.” This reunion marked an emotional moment for the family after the recent chaos brought on by the fire.
Reflecting on his 99 years, Van Dyke noted, “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.” Although he acknowledged not feeling his best, his spirit remains unbroken as he planned an intimate family celebration to mark the occasion.
Looking toward the future, the energetic actor hasn’t lost his ambition. When asked about his aspirations for the upcoming year, he expressed a desire to continue working: “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 recent discussions with a major studio and a notable director, suggesting that a return to the screen could be on the horizon.
Through the trials and tribulations of recent days, Dick Van Dyke remains focused on family, recovery, and the exciting chapters that lie ahead in his remarkable life. His unwavering sense of humor and determination to stay active present an inspiring message: age is just a number, and it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions.