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Dick Van Dyke, one of America’s most beloved entertainers, has reached an extraordinary milestone—100 years old on December 13.
Honored by the Kennedy Center in 2021, the legendary actor and Broadway star famously joked about his longevity, saying he has no idea how he made it this far—and isn’t planning to question it.
PBS Marks The Milestone With A New American Masters Special
To celebrate Van Dyke’s centennial, PBS is premiering a special documentary titled American Masters: Starring Dick Van Dyke.
This star-filled tribute explores his remarkable eight-decade career and airs the night before his birthday. The film also streams free on pbs.org/americanmasters and via the PBS App.
Inside The Documentary: Voices, Footage, And Memories
The documentary offers a comprehensive look at every phase of Van Dyke’s journey, featuring new interviews with Van Dyke himself and never-before-seen footage.
It also includes reflections from comedy and entertainment legends such as Carol Burnett, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Julie Andrews, Ted Danson, Larry Mathews, and the late Mary Tyler Moore.
From Early Jobs To Broadway Breakthrough
Before becoming a household name, Van Dyke worked as a radio DJ during World War II, performed in nightclubs as part of a slapstick duo, and even tried his hand as a CBS morning news anchor alongside Walter Cronkite—a role he later admitted wasn’t his best fit.
His career truly took off on Broadway with Bye Bye Birdie, earning him a Tony Award in 1961. He reprised the role in the 1963 film adaptation, which opened doors to television stardom.
Television Stardom And The Iconic Ottoman Tumble
Van Dyke’s Broadway success led Carl Reiner to cast him as Rob Petrie in The Dick Van Dyke Show—a role Reiner originally planned to play himself.
After watching Van Dyke perform, including the now-famous trip over the ottoman, Reiner knew he had found the perfect star.
Film Roles That Defined Generations
Among his many unforgettable performances, Van Dyke’s portrayal of Bert in Disney’s Mary Poppins cemented his status as a favorite among children and families.
Karen Dotrice, who played Jane Banks, recalled that working with him was all about joy—a theme echoed throughout the documentary.
Why Dick Van Dyke Is Truly One Of A Kind
Actor Ted Danson summed up Van Dyke’s magic by praising his physical comedy, creativity, and childlike enthusiasm for life.
That joyful spirit, many believe, is a key reason Van Dyke has remained active and inspiring for so long. Van Dyke himself credits much of his happiness to his wife Arlene, whom he married in 2012.
How And When To Watch
American Masters: Starring Dick Van Dyke premieres nationwide on Friday, December 12, on local PBS stations and will be available to stream online and on the PBS App.
Reaching 100 years old, Dick Van Dyke stands as a rare symbol of enduring talent, positivity, and creative joy.
PBS’s American Masters special not only honors his legendary achievements across stage, screen, and television, but also celebrates the spirit that made him timeless.
His story reminds audiences that passion, humor, and joy can truly last a lifetime.
FAQs
When does Dick Van Dyke turn 100?
Dick Van Dyke turns 100 years old on December 13.
What is the PBS documentary about Dick Van Dyke called?
The special is titled American Masters: Starring Dick Van Dyke.
Where can I watch the Dick Van Dyke PBS special?
It airs on PBS and streams free on pbs.org/americanmasters and the PBS App.