Dick Van Dyke has been a staple in Hollywood for so long that it’s understandable if he prefers to stay home, especially since he’s nearing 99 years old.
Concerns for the beloved Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star arose after he missed the Primetime Emmy Awards on September 9, despite being scheduled to present one of the awards.
Recently, the five-time Emmy Award-winning 98-year-old addressed his health issues, which led to the cancellation of some public appearances, stating they were “more than he’s able to do.”
He was photographed on Monday, September 23, while leaving a pharmacy in Malibu, California.
That same day, a statement was released regarding his planned appearance at the FanX event in Salt Lake City, Utah, scheduled from Thursday, September 26, to Saturday, September 28.
Producers of the comic-con style event stated: “We are sorry to announce that Dick Van Dyke is not able to travel to FanX at this time.
“He expresses his gratitude to all of those who continue to support him but, at almost 99 years of age, traveling and interacting with thousands of people is more than he is able to do at this time.”
When approached by a photographer on September 23, Van Dyke humorously remarked, “I feel old!”
He also commented on his upcoming 99th birthday on December 13, stating he is “just praying that I make it.”
Despite missing some events this year, Van Dyke did attend the Creative Arts Emmy Awards on September 7, demonstrating that he’s still got some vitality left!
The Mary Poppins star held an Emmy award from his chair after “Dick Van Dyke: 98 Years of Magic,” a CBS special, won the Outstanding Variety Special award.
Although he didn’t add to his five Primetime Emmys, the occasion highlighted how cherished he is in the entertainment industry.
Earlier this year, Van Dyke became the oldest Daytime Emmy award winner in history.
While accepting his award in June, he remarked, “I’m 98 years old. Can you believe it? This really tops off a lifetime of 80 years in the business.
“If I had known I would have lived this long, I would’ve taken better care of myself.”