Mary Poppins star Dick Van Dyke visits Disneyland for his wife’s birthday.
Legendary actor Dick Van Dyke, known to many as the star of Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, recently enjoyed a magical day at Disneyland alongside his wife, Arlene Silver. Despite the 46-year age difference, the couple, who tied the knot in 2012, share an undeniable bond and a zest for life that showed during their Disneyland visit.
Van Dyke, at the spry age of 97, entered the iconic Anaheim, California park in a wheelchair, escorted by a cast member. His unmistakable joy was evident as he took in the sights and sounds, particularly during a performance by the Dapper Dans, Disneyland’s resident musical quartet. Dressed comfortably in a blue sweatshirt, gray slacks, black shoes, a blue cap, and sunglasses, the beloved actor appeared at ease and in good spirits.
Dick Van Dyke’s lovely wife Arlene Silver.
His wife, Arlene Silver, 52, opted for a casual look, pairing a tee layered over a purple long-sleeve shirt with black pants, sneakers, and sunglasses. The couple’s rare public appearance comes months after Van Dyke experienced a minor accident, crashing his car into a gate on a rainy day in Malibu, California. The actor suffered only minor injuries, retaining his sense of humor and buoyant spirit despite the incident.
Fan reactions to the couple’s Disneyland visit were smiles everywhere and people waving at Van Dyke. Instagram videos of the actor waving to fans with his wife from a balcony in New Orleans Square had people commenting things like, “TRUE DISNEY LEGEND!” and “An absolute magical moment being able to see the one and only D.V.D!”
Van Dyke’s endurance and vivacity, even in his late 90s, are truly remarkable.
He credits his fitness to a routine of long walks on the treadmill, water aerobics, weight lifting, and, in his words, “keep moving. I’ve always been an exerciser and still am. I go to the gym three days a week, get in the pool and exercise. At my age, they say to keep moving. Put me on solid ground and I’ll start tapping,” he told Closer magazine back in 2019.
He also acknowledges the role of “good genes” and “optimism” in maintaining his health, despite an arthritis diagnosis.
Van Dyke’s relationship with Silver, whom he first met at the Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2007, also contributes to his youthful spirit. Despite the age difference, they’ve found understanding and adaptation to be part of the fun in their relationship. Before Silver, Van Dyke had a lengthy relationship with actress Michelle Triola and was married to Margie Willett, with whom he shares four children.
Dick Van Dyke’s magical day at Disneyland gave fans of this true Disney legend, a glimpse into his life, the man who brought so much joy to us with his Disney performances. More footage from him at Disneyland is below!