Celebrating Dick Van Dyke’s 100th Birthday

(AP) Comedy legend Dick Van Dyke recently turned 100, a significant milestone since he first charmed audiences nearly 60 years ago with his performances alongside Julie Andrews in “Mary Poppins” and through his self-titled television show.

“The funniest thing is, it’s not enough,” he shared in an interview with ABC News from his home in Malibu, California. “A hundred years is not enough. You want to live more, and so do I,” he said, reflecting on his life.

This weekend, theaters across the country are showcasing a new documentary about his life, titled “Dick Van Dyke: 100th Anniversary,” as part of the birthday festivities.

Van Dyke rose to prominence through “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which aired on CBS between 1961 and 1966. He also captured hearts as a chimney sweep with a Cockney accent in the beloved 1964 Disney film “Mary Poppins.” Later, in his 70s, he starred as a medical detective in the show “Diagnosis.”

Beyond his acting career, he’s also a celebrated Broadway star, earning a Tony Award for “Bye Bye Birdie,” one Grammy Award, and four Primetime Emmy Awards. He also starred in the film adaptation of “Bye Bye Birdie” in 1963.

Just last year, he made headlines as the oldest recipient of a Daytime Emmy Award and appeared on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives.”

In the ’70s, he overcame struggles with alcoholism and has since spoken openly about his journey to sobriety at times when such conversations were rare.

Now, entering his centenary, Van Dyke reflected on how he once portrayed older characters. “I played old men a lot, but I always played angry, grumpy old men,” he mentioned. “Actually, that’s not the case. I don’t know anyone else who is 100 years old, but I can speak for myself.”

He recently penned a book titled “100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life,” where he shares insights gained from reaching this milestone. Acknowledging his wife, 54-year-old makeup artist and producer Arlene Silver, he credits her for keeping his spirit vibrant. “She gives me energy, humor and all kinds of support,” he mentioned during his conversation with ABC News.

Born in West Plains, Missouri, in 1925, Van Dyke described himself as a “class clown” during his upbringing in Danville, Illinois, where he admired and imitated silent film stars.

He recounted starting his acting journey in Christmas pageants around the age of four or five, humorously recalling a performance where he portrayed baby Jesus. “I caused some kind of rift. I don’t know what I said, but it divided the congregation,” he laughed, reminiscing about the joy of eliciting laughter.

When asked about the challenges of turning 100, he admitted, “I miss exercising. I don’t know what it is, but I have one leg.” With a chuckle, he added, “I’m still trying to dance.”