Hollywood icon Dick Van Dyke, turning 100 in December, reveals the surprising habits and the love that keeps him active, joyful, and feeling young. Learn his secrets to longevity and happiness.
As Dick Van Dyke prepares to celebrate his 100th birthday on December 13, the Hollywood legend is opening up about the real secret behind his long life, energy, and positive spirit.
With more than 50 years of success in film and television, including classics like Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and The Dick Van Dyke Show, many would expect the star to finally slow down. But instead, at 99 years old, he’s still writing books, appearing at events, and living life with joy.
In his new book, 100 Rules for Living to 100, Van Dyke reflects on everything he has learned—including the one person he believes is responsible for keeping him young.
His Wife Keeps Him Feeling Alive
Van Dyke credits his wife, Arlene Silver, for much of his happiness and energy.
“Arlene is half my age, and she makes me feel somewhere between two-thirds and three-quarters my age,” he writes. “Every day she finds a new way to keep me up and moving, bright and hopeful and needed.”
The pair met in 2006 when Arlene was a makeup artist. Van Dyke, then 80, says he felt an instant connection—so much so that he broke his own rule and emailed her first. He admitted he had never approached a woman first before that moment.
The bold move paid off. The couple married in 2012, and he describes her as:
His soulmate
His partner in love and life
The person who keeps him active, social, and happy
He even jokes that she prevents him from turning into “a hermit or a grouch.”
A Marriage Full of Energy and Love
Arlene, now 54, is often seen with him at award shows and red-carpet events. Van Dyke says she plays a huge role in his daily life:
“Arlene is my partner in love, life, and logistics. She’s always on the phone planning events, helping me perform, and keeping me involved.”
He says performing, singing, and staying social give him life—and Arlene makes sure he keeps doing all of it.
The Health Habit That Keeps Him Young
While Van Dyke says love keeps his heart young, he has also shared another major secret to staying healthy: regular exercise.
He revealed earlier this year:
“Three days a week, we go to the gym. Still. Three days a week.”
Even at 99, he stays active and moves his body often, proving that fitness at any age can make a massive difference.
A Life Lived With Joy
As he approaches his 100th birthday, Dick Van Dyke’s story is a powerful reminder that love, laughter, movement, and staying social can help anyone live a longer, happier life.
His energy continues to inspire millions—and he shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.
