Dick Van Dyke’s Wife, Arlene, Opens Up About ‘Curse’ Of Longevity As Husband Nears 100

At 99 years old, Dick Van Dyke still has a heart full of humor and a spirit that shows no signs of slowing down soon. During a recent event alongside his wife, Arlene Van Dyke, she gave a rare glimpse into the toll of living a long life, which could be filled with joy and the ache of outliving nearly everyone he once called a peer.

Over the weekend, the couple hosted a Q&A session during the Dick & Arlene Van Dyke Vandy Camp, a retreat-style gathering for fans and friends. The actor revealed that he and longtime friend Ed Asner had planned to remake The Odd Couple until Asner passed away in 2021 at the age of 91. Jokingly, Arlene commented about it being the “curse” of longevity.

Dick Van Dyke’s wife, Arlene’s opinion about aging

“The 99-year-old revealed during a Q&A with his wife, Arlene Van Dyke, at the Dick & Arlene Van Dyke Vandy Camp event over the weekend, that he and the late Ed Asner had been planning a remake of the classic comedy The Odd Couple before Asner’s death in 2021 at the age of 91.”

— Georgeanne Matranga ☮️? (@DTPORGE) May 26, 2025

 

Some people are born to entertain, and Van Dyke is undeniably one of them. Reminiscing on the need for a remake and how beautiful it would have been, Dick shared, “I’ve lost many friends.” Arlene, 53, added a funny observation. “He’s outlived everybody.” Longevity could be bittersweet; for every milestone reached, there is often someone missing to celebrate it.

As he approaches his 100th birthday this December, Dick Van Dyke continues to be full of warmth and positivity, expressing gratitude at every opportunity. He once shared that life had been good to him, and there was nothing to complain about. He performs with the same optimism and a desire to see his audience filled with happiness.

Survival and Strength

Last year, Van Dyke faced a more immediate threat days before his birthday. A devastating wildfire swept through Southern California, nearing the Malibu home he shares with Arlene. In the footage, Dick was seen being helped to safety by friends as flames approached.

Ahead of his milestone birthday, Dick Van Dyke will release a memoir, 100 Rules for Living to 100, later in the year, where he shares his thoughts on aging well. He describes how his enthusiasm has been beneficial to his health and well-being.