Last week, we reported that the Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke is no longer able to travel as he prepares to turn 99 in December. Now, sources close to Van Dyke are saying that he is “not always feeling well” ahead of this landmark birthday.
Van Dyke Is ‘Not Always Feeling Well’
Not that a little thing like feeling unwell would stop Dick Van Dyke, of course.
“Dick will be the first one to tell you that he’s old and not always feeling well,” an insider told Closer Weekly. “But he loves engaging with fans and the public. He’s always wanting to go somewhere … he doesn’t like to sit around and do nothing.”
“Even at this age, he’s positive and his spirits are high,” the source added.
This comes after we reported that Van Dyke had to cancel an appearance at the Salt Lake City comic convention FanX at the last minute because he is no longer able to travel.
“We are sorry to announce that Dick Van Dyke is not able to travel to FanX,” convention organizers wrote on Facebook.
“He expresses his gratitude to all of those who continue to 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,” they continued.
Full Story: Dick Van Dyke No Longer ‘Able To Travel’ As He Prepares To Turn 99
Van Dyke Is ‘Praying’ To Make It To 99
Afterwards, Van Dyke was spotted running errands with a friend near his home in Malibu, California. While walking with the help of a cane, Van Dyke was asked about his plans for his 99th birthday.
“Just praying that I make it,” Van Dyke replied with a laugh.
Van Dyke was then asked how he is feeling.
“I’m very old,” he responded.
Check out Van Dyke chatting it up in the video below.
Related: Dick Van Dyke ‘Praying’ He’ll Live To See His 99th Birthday – ‘I’m Very Old’
Van Dyke Skips Emmy Awards
This came immediately after Van Dyke was inexplicably absent from the Emmy Awards on September 15. His absence raised eyebrows since he had been confirmed as a presenter days before.
Van Dyke’s last official public appearance came on on September 7 at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys. There, his CBS special, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic, took home the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special.
“Thank you, that reception, I cannot tell you what it means,” Van Dyke said as he accepted the award on the behalf of those who made the special.
“I’m 99 next month,” he added.
After the ceremony, Van Dyke told reporters that he would like to be remembered “for laughter.”
“For making people laugh for 75 years,” he continued. “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.”
Van Dyke Is Still Working
Indeed, Van Dyke is still working in a big way. He’s signed on to star in the upcoming comedy Capture The Flag.
“A group of elderly Vets engage in a spirited game of ‘capture the flag’ for the privilege of raising Old Glory every morning in their community,” the film’s official synopsis reads.
Back in June, Van Dyke made history when he became the oldest person to win a Daytime Emmy. He won the award for a guest spot on the soap opera Days Of Our Lives.
Van Dyke is set to turn 99 on December 13. Please join us in saying a prayer for his health as this landmark birthday nears!
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