Dick Van Dyke Misses Fan Gathering Due to Health

Beloved entertainer Dick Van Dyke was unable to attend his fan event this weekend. The 99-year-old actor’s absence, though disappointing for attendees, highlighted the realities of aging gracefully.

A Bittersweet Absence

The third installment of Vandy Camp, the fan event hosted by Van Dyke, took place without him. His wife, Arlene Silver, delivered the news that he wasn’t “up to” participating in Saturday’s festivities in Malibu.

Silver shared that her husband was watching the livestream. She also asked fans to express what Van Dyke means to them. She also stated that he’s “pretty confident” he’ll be back for the next event.

“I’m sorry. When you’re 99-and-a-half years old, you have good days and bad days, and when you’re 40 years old, you have good days and bad days,”

—Arlene Silver

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that the number of Americans aged 95 and older has increased significantly in recent decades, reaching over 680,000 in 2022 (U.S. Census Bureau).

Event Details

Vandy Camp, organized by Van Dyke and Silver, with their musical group The Vantastix, is a celebration of comedy, vaudeville, and the circus. The event aims to bring fans together for a vintage experience.

Recent Projects

Van Dyke celebrated his 99th birthday on December 13. Shortly before that, he appeared in Coldplay‘s music video, “All My Love,” which he and Arlene produced.

“I’m acutely aware that I, you know, could go any day now, but I don’t know why it doesn’t concern me,”

—Dick Van Dyke

Despite his health challenges, Van Dyke maintains a positive outlook. His continued creative endeavors are a testament to his enduring spirit.