Dick Van Dyke was unable to attend a comedy event on Saturday due to an undisclosed illness. The 99-year-old actor was meant to lead a bandy camp at Malibu High School, but his wife, Arlene Silver, hosted in his place. She addressed the audience, noting, “I’m not the Vandark you’re expecting,” according to reports.
She conveyed that her husband regretted missing the celebration, explaining, “When you’re 99 and a half, there are good and bad days… unfortunately, today is not one of those good days for him.” She mentioned that he was dealing with an illness that kept him away.
Despite his absence, Van Dyke participated in the event via livestream, with Silver assuring attendees that he would be present at the next Bundy Camp. The event included various performances, games, and Q&A sessions.
Silver expressed how much Van Dyke cherishes the fundraising event, emphasizing that it represents more than just him: “It’s a celebration of your childhood, everything about our childhood, and the music that we all grew up with, with Dick Van Dyke being a significant part of that,” she added.
Recently celebrating his 99th birthday in December, Van Dyke shared his feelings about aging during an appearance in Coldplay’s music video, stating, “I know I could go anytime, but I really don’t care; I’m not afraid of that.” He also mentioned, “I think I’m one of the lucky people who got to do what I would have done for a living anyway.”
This reflects not just his profession but a fondness for the joy he brings to others, hoping his work continues to spark laughter for years to come.
