Aging legend Dick Van Dyke shares candid insights on the challenges of reaching nearly a century of life.
Veteran actor Dick Van Dyke, set to celebrate his centennial in December, lamented during a recent interview that he has outlived many of his friends. The Hollywood icon, alongside his wife Arlene, participated in a Q&A session at the Dick & Arlene Van Dyke Present Vandy Camp event in Malibu, and the topic of aging and loss surfaced.
Recalling a planned remake of their classic collaboration, "The Odd Couple," Dickshared that he and his co-star Ed Asner were working together to revive the classic comedy. However, that opportunity was lost when Ed passed away at the age of 91 in 2021.
"That would've been such fun, and we lost it. I've lost a lot of friends," Dick said, reflecting on the missed collaboration. Arlene echoed his sentiments, remarking, "He’s outlived everybody. That’s the curse of living to almost 100."
Despite the numerous losses, Dick has maintained a positive outlook, attributing his optimistic mindset to a life that has been "good to me." Arlene added that her husband has remained upbeat even in the face of such heart-wrenching loss.
In the realm of health-and-wellness and aging, Dick Van Dyke, due to celebrate his centennial, expressed regret over the loss of his friend and co-star, Ed Asner, who passed away in 2021, stating, "We lost a lot of fun." Arlene Van Dyke, reflecting on her husband's long life, lamented, "He’s outlived everybody. That’s the curse of living to almost 100," yet they continue to embrace a positive outlook on life, attributing their optimism to good health and the blessings received throughout their journey.