Earlier this week, we reported that the Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke is no longer able to travel as he prepares to turn 99 in December. This came after Van Dyke was mysteriously absent from the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards despite being named as a presenter just days before the ceremony.
Now, Van Dyke has reemerged to say that he is “praying” that he lives to see his 99th birthday on December 13.
Van Dyke Is ‘Praying’ He’ll Make It To 99
Van Dyke appeared to be in good spirits when he was spotted running errands with a friend near his home in Malibu, California earlier this week. 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.
Van Dyke No Longer Able To Travel
Earlier this week, 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’s Last Official Public Appearance
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.”
And that, he will.
Related: Dick Van Dyke, 98, Surprisingly Skips Emmy Awards Despite Being Announced As A Presenter
Van Dyke’s Secret To Aging
Van Dyke is set to turn 99 on December 13. Last year, he opened up about what his secret is to living to such an advanced age.
“Genes, I guess, for one thing,” Van Dyke told Yahoo! Entertainment. “Having a beautiful young wife half my age to take care of me — that works! My positive attitude, I get that from my wife.”
Van Dyke was referring to his wife Arlene Silver, who is 46 years his junior. The couple has been married since 2012.
“I wrote a book called Keep Moving: I still go to the gym three days a week and work out,” he continued. “And I advise everybody to do that, because that’s what ages people — it’s just a stiffening up and not exercising their muscles and their lungs. Exercise is the answer.”
Van Dyke is a true living legend, and there will never be another one like him. Please join us in saying a prayer that he lives to see his 99th birthday, and many more to come!
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