Dick Van Dyke has accumulated a considerable wealth through his extensive career in entertainment.
Originally from Missouri, the Hollywood TV icon began his journey in radio and television after being ineligible for US military service during World War I due to being underweight.
As he recalled in a 2018 interview, his career took off with his Broadway debut in Bye Bye Birdie, which eventually led to his own CBS series, The Dick Van Dyke Show, during the 1960s.
His career further skyrocketed with his memorable performance as Bert, the chimney sweep, in Disney’s musical film Mary Poppins in 1964. This was followed by roles in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and other projects, earning him prestigious awards and the title of Disney Legend in 1998.
Now, the cherished actor is commemorating his 100th birthday as of Friday (December 13), marking eight decades in the entertainment business.
Celebrity Net Worth reports that Van Dyke’s impressive net worth is approximately $50 million.
Given his achievements, this is no surprise. The father of four boasts four Primetime Emmy Awards, two Daytime Emmys, a Grammy, a Tony, a Kennedy Center Honor, and recognition in the Television Hall of Fame.
In honor of his milestone birthday, Van Dyke spoke with Good Morning America about his extraordinary life and career.
“You know I played old men a lot. And I always played them as angry, and cantankerous,” he shared. “It’s not really that way. I don’t know any other 100-year-old, but I can speak for myself.”
Reflecting on his professional life, he mentioned: “If I’m not enjoying myself, I’m really bad,” according to The Mirror US.
“It’s such a blessing to find a way of making a living that you love, that you’d do for nothing. I feel so sorry for people who hate their jobs. I look forward to going to work every morning.”
Beyond his career, he attributes his vitality to his youthful wife, 54-year-old Arlene Silver, and staying active by hitting the gym three times a week.
Referring to his wife, whom he married in 2012, as a ‘health nut’, he considers himself ‘so lucky’ not to experience aches and pains at his age.
“She kept me young,” he expressed. “She gives me energy, she gives me humor, and all kinds of support.”
Van Dyke has no intentions of slowing down, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining his health in the future.
“The funniest thing is, it’s not enough,” he said about reaching 100. “A hundred years is not enough. You wanna live more, which I plan to.”