98-Year-Old Dick Van Dyke Opens Up About Recent Event Cancellations
In just a few short months, Dick Van Dyke is set to turn 99, on Dec. 13, 2024. The actor is praying that he makes it to his birthday after having to cancel several appearances due to his health and age. Van Dyke was scheduled to present at the 2024 Emmy Awards and appear at the FanX Salt Lake Comic Convention in Utah but did not attend either event.
Those who had already purchased a photo op with Van Dyke at FanX got the chance to swap to another star or get a refund. The event organizers shared a statement that read: “We are sorry to announce that Dick Van Dyke is not able to travel to FanX. He expresses his gratitude to all of those who 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.”
Monty Brinton/CBS
While fans have become concerned after he canceled both appearances, Van Dyke was seen leaving a pharmacy in Malibu this week. Photographers asked him how he was doing and he joked, “I feel old.” He was also asked if he has any big plans for his 99th birthday in December, but Van Dyke shared, “Just praying that I make it.”
Van Dyke did appear at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys this month and opened up about what he wants to be remembered for. The star said, “Hopefully for making people laugh for 75 years. I’ve been in the business for 75 years, I can’t believe it that I’m still here and performing! I’m looking for work if anyone’s interested.”
Jay Maidment/Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/Everett Collection
Van Dyke also became the oldest Daytime Emmy winner when he received a Daytime Emmy this year for his guest-starring role in the soap opera Days of Our Lives. He added about the award, “I don’t believe this. I feel like a spy from nighttime television. 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.”
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