Dick Van Dyke recently shared his experience of meeting Arlene Silver for the first time and the public reaction to their significant 46-year age difference.
The iconic actor, known for his roles in “Mary Poppins” and “Night at the Museum,” first encountered Silver in 2006, and they married in 2012. Their relationship, now 13 years strong, has often been the subject of public scrutiny due to the age gap between them.
Despite the skepticism, the 99-year-old Emmy winner and the 53-year-old makeup artist are content in their relationship, generally keeping details of their private life under wraps.
Recently, they have been more vocal about their marriage and the age difference that once drew widespread attention. Van Dyke disclosed people’s initial reactions when they began dating.
In an interview with People, Van Dyke recounted their first meeting backstage at a show, saying, “She walked by and for some reason, I just jumped up and said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick’.”
Reflecting on that moment, Van Dyke humorously admitted he’d never approached a stranger like that before, always feeling too nervous, but there was something about Silver that compelled him to act, and he was glad he did.
During the “Dick & Arlene Van Dyke Present Vandy Camp” event on April 20, the couple looked back on their years together, and Van Dyke talked about defying initial doubts from others.
He mentioned that many believed their relationship wouldn’t last, but they have a strong connection. Silver agreed, noting the rarity of such a harmonious relationship, even among couples of similar age.
Silver emphasized how much they care for each other and how her husband has empowered her, making her feel capable of achieving anything she sets her mind to. “We’re very supportive of each other,” Silver concluded.
The couple has publicly expressed admiration for one another on various occasions.
During a 2023 appearance on “The Masked Singer,” where Van Dyke performed as a Sinatra-singing Gnome, he discussed his youthful appearance.
He credited good genes as one factor and humorously added, “Having a beautiful young wife half my age to take care of me – that works!”
Moreover, Van Dyke attributes his youthful demeanor to maintaining a positive attitude, a mindset he says is bolstered by his wife’s influence.
He also advocates for regular exercise, noting that he still works out three times a week. Van Dyke believes that staying active prevents the physical stiffness that comes with age, stating, “Exercise is the answer.”