Last week, we reported that the Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke, who is set to turn 99 in less than two months, was mysteriously absent from the the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards. This came as a shock and sparked fears for Van Dyke’s health, as he had been name as a presenter for the awards show just days before it took place on September 15.
Now, there appears to be reason for more concern for Van Dyke, as it’s been revealed that he can no longer travel.
Van Dyke No Longer ‘Able To Travel’
Less than one week before FanX, organizers of the three-day Salt Lake City’s comic convention have announced that Van Dyke will no longer be in attendance. It had been announced just last month that Van Dyke would be returning to the convention once again. Sadly, it seems that this is no longer possible for hm.
“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.
Fans Respond
Fans were quick to voice their support for Van Dyke in the comments section.
“Sad! I was really hoping to get a chance to see him since I missed him previously,” one fan wrote. “But I get that it’s a lot for someone of his age. Hopefully he gets feeling better.”
“I totally understand this,” another fan commented. “When he came last time he had just gotten over pneumonia and it was very difficult for him to be there for half a day.”
“I got super lucky to meet him and have him sign my 50th Mary Poppins DVD but I could tell that he was so worn out,” this fan added. “He had to cancel the rest of the day and for me personally his health is most important and top priority.”
“Totally understandable at his age he should be resting and being retired,” a third fan wrote. “We enjoy the memories and movies that he gives us.”
Related: Dick Van Dyke, 98, Surprisingly Skips Emmy Awards Despite Being Announced As A Presenter
Van Dyke’s Busy Summer
This comes after a busy summer for Van Dyke. Back in June, he made history when he became the oldest Daytime Emmy winner ever. Indeed, Van Dyke took home the award for best guest performance in a daytime drama series for his portrayal of amnesiac Timothy Robicheaux on the beloved soap opera Days of Our Lives.
“I don’t believe this. I feel like a spy from nighttime television,” he said at the ceremony. “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.”
Van Dyke’s Last Public Appearance
Van Dyke was last seen in public 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.
Afterward the ceremony, Van Dyke told reporters that he would like to be remembered “for laughter.”
“Hopefully 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.”
Full Story: Dick Van Dyke Tells Fans How He Wants To Be Remembered As He Prepares To Turn 99
Van Dyke is set to celebrate his 99th birthday on December 13. While it’s sad to see that he can’t travel anymore, his health should be his number one priority.
Please join us in saying a prayer for Van Dyke as he prepares for this milestone birthday!
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