Iconic entertainer Dick Van Dyke recently celebrated his 99th birthday on Friday, shortly after experiencing a dramatic escape from a nearby wildfire in Malibu. Known for his role on “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which aired from 1961 to 1966, the beloved star approached his milestone with his trademark humor, joking, “I tried to light 99 candles and set Malibu on fire.”
The birthday celebration followed a tense incident where Van Dyke collapsed while attempting to protect his backyard from the Franklin Fire. Thankfully, neighbors came to his aid, carrying him to safety. “I suddenly ran out of gas. I couldn’t stand up,” he explained. Both he and his wife, Arlene, are safe, and their unique home — part residence, part museum — was fortunately spared. Investigators continue to probe the cause of the fire, which has caused significant damage to neighboring properties. As of the latest update, the fire is now 30% contained, and local roads remain closed.
Van Dyke’s son, Barry, made it a priority to check on his father despite roadblocks in place, expressing determination to navigate the situation. He, along with his grandson Wes and great-granddaughter Kyla, successfully reached the actor. In a touching moment, Kyla shared a heartfelt birthday wish: “Dear Grandpa, I hope you have a great birthday. Love, Kyla.” This reunion marked the first time Van Dyke had seen his family since the wildfire disrupted their lives.
Looking back on his birthday, Van Dyke remarked, “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.” He plans to celebrate with a small family gathering and the excitement of recent events seems to have geared him up for what’s next.
Van Dyke remains ambitious and humorous as ever. When asked about his aspirations for the upcoming year, he expressed a desire to work again, saying, “I hope to get work. I’d like to get a job.” He even joked about potentially playing a grandfather on a sitcom, revealing discussions with a major studio and a prominent director about a potential return to acting.
As he looks to the future, the Hollywood legend remains focused on family, recovery from the recent ordeal, and the exciting next chapter of his remarkable life. Dick Van Dyke is certainly proving that age is just a number, and he continues to embrace new opportunities, demonstrating that one can always learn and grow, regardless of age.