Dick Van Dyke’s unexpected romance with Arlene Silver captivated the public in 2006 when he was a remarkable ninety-nine years old. Initially meeting at the SAG Awards where she worked as a makeup artist – a striking contrast given their forty-six year age gap – Van Dyke recounts his immediate attraction, describing it as a spontaneous “Hi, I’m Dick” uttered without prior hesitation.
Despite initial skepticism and public commentary regarding the relationship’s viability, the pair forged ahead, exchanging vows in 2012. Silver, now fifty-three, described their connection as remarkably intuitive: “People the same age don’t last,” she stated, emphasizing a shared desire for companionship and mutual support.
Van Dyke attributes his enduring vitality to several key factors. He emphasizes physical activity – regularly engaging in water aerobics, weightlifting, and treadmill walks – stating, “I’ve always been an exerciser and still am.” He credits good genes and a fortunate avoidance of accidents for his continued mobility. His philosophy is succinctly summarized: “Keep moving,” he advises, recalling advice from his book *Keep Moving and Other Tips and Truths About Aging*, which cautions against awkward movements like “going down the stairs sideways.”
The couple maintains a simple lifestyle, primarily enjoying time at their Malibu home – a residence that recently sustained damage during the devastating Franklin fire, though they consider themselves fortunate. Van Dyke readily admits to past regrets, expressing remorse over unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, yet remains resolute in his outlook: “I have arthritis and all those things, but I keep moving…”
“He is the most perfect human being,” Silver confided, describing Van Dyke’s influence on her life. “I’ve never met anyone so happy, so genuine, so amazing. He’s just like a happy pill.” The pair embrace their unique dynamic with open arms, acknowledging its unconventional nature and continuously working to find common ground. “I sometimes forget that we’re doing a great experiment here – 46 years difference,” Van Dyke reflected, recognizing the need for adaptation and understanding within their relationship.
Van Dyke’s zest for life extends beyond physical activity; he actively participates in singing and dancing—a practice he discovered later in life, often accompanied by his wife. “Everybody should dance,” he declared, “And everybody should sing. People say, ‘Well, I can’t sing.’ Everybody can sing.”
