Dick Van Dyke, the beloved actress and icon, marked an incredible milestone as he celebrated his 99th birthday on December 13. Remarkably, just days prior, he narrowly escaped a wildfire that threatened his Malibu home. In an interview with NBC News, Van Dyke recounted his experience with the Franklin Fire, noting that he had faced wildfires before but was “wasn’t ready” for this intense situation.
The actor shared a vivid description of the moment he saw flames approaching while trying to untangle a fire hose connected to his pool. “What I did was exhaust myself,” he admitted, describing how he lost track of his age and struggled to escape the imminent danger. Thankfully, three neighbors came to his aid and helped him reach safety. He expressed gratitude, stating, “They saved my life and my house.”
Van Dyke successfully evacuated with his wife, Arlene, and most of their pets, except for one cat, Bobo, who escaped during the chaos. Fortunately, the couple was joyfully reunited with Bobo shortly after returning home, thanks to a swift response from Animal Control.
In recent reflections, Van Dyke has shared his thoughts on mortality, indicating he feels at peace with the inevitability of death. “I’m acutely aware that I could go any day now. But I don’t know why it doesn’t concern me. I’m not afraid of it,” he stated in the music video for Coldplay’s “All My Love.” This perspective showcases his remarkable resilience and positive spirit, even in the face of adversity.
Summary: Dick Van Dyke celebrated his 99th birthday after a narrow escape from a Malibu wildfire. Grateful for the support of his neighbors who helped him evacuate, he also reunited with his cat after the evacuation. Reflecting on life and mortality, Van Dyke expressed a calming acceptance of the natural course of life, showcasing the strength that comes with age and experience.
This heartwarming story is a testament to community support and resilience in the face of natural disasters, highlighting the strength and positivity that can emerge even in challenging circumstances.