Actor Dick Van Dyke is celebrating his 99th birthday in the company of his wife Arlene and their pets, including their cat Bobo, who experienced a brief scare when he went missing amid the chaos of the Franklin fire in Malibu.
The legendary actor had to evacuate his home early this week due to the wildfire, which began on Monday night and expanded to approximately 4,000 acres, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds. Van Dyke described a harrowing moment when he was struggling to untangle a fire hose as the flames approached. “I’m out there laying on the ground trying to undo this fire hose, and the fire’s coming over the hill,” he recounted, emphasizing the danger he faced during the emergency.
Fortunately, Van Dyke’s neighbors promptly came to his aid, carrying him to safety and returning to extinguish a small fire near his guesthouse. Van Dyke expressed gratitude, stating, “Three neighbors came and carried me out.” Their timely intervention helped save not only the actor but also his home.
While he and his wife successfully evacuated with their pets, they initially feared for the safety of their cat Bobo, who went missing during the turmoil. However, upon returning home, they joyfully discovered Bobo safe and sound. Acknowledging the concern from fans and community, Van Dyke shared the happy news on Facebook, appreciating the support from Animal Control, which had gotten involved in the search.
The outpouring of support didn’t stop there. Members of the British rock band Coldplay also reached out, sending a heartfelt message of love and support to Van Dyke and his family during this challenging time. The band’s gesture came alongside the release of a new video showcasing Van Dyke’s timeless talent, with lead singer Chris Martin even serenading him in honor of his birthday.
This story not only highlights the challenges faced by residents during wildfires but also showcases the spirit of community and compassion in times of crisis. Van Dyke’s ability to celebrate his birthday surrounded by loved ones and his furry companions is a hopeful reminder of resilience and support in adversity.
In summary, despite the recent destruction caused by the Franklin fire, the kindness of neighbors and the support of friends and fans has helped bring some joy and relief to Van Dyke during this difficult time.