Dick Van Dyke, born on December 13, 1925, is an American actor, comedian, writer, and singer. He is best known for his roles in the films 'Mary Poppins', 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', and 'Night at the Museum' trilogy. He started his career in the late 1940s as a radio DJ and comedian. He then moved on to television and film, where he became a household name. Van Dyke has won numerous awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry, including a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and multiple Emmy Awards.
Early Life
Dick Van Dyke was born in West Plains, Missouri, to Hazel Victoria and Loren Wayne Van Dyke. He grew up in Danville, Illinois, where he attended high school. After graduation, he joined the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he attended Danville Junior College and then transferred to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where he studied radio and television.
Career Beginnings
Van Dyke started his career in the late 1940s as a radio DJ in Danville, Illinois. He then moved to television, where he hosted a variety show called 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'. He also appeared in several Broadway productions, including 'Bye Bye Birdie' and 'The Girls Against the Boys'.
Breakthrough Role
Van Dyke's breakthrough role came in 1964 when he starred as Bert, the chimney sweep, in the Disney film 'Mary Poppins'. He also provided the voice for the role of the elderly banker, Mr. Dawes Sr. The film was a huge success and earned Van Dyke a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy.
Later Career
Van Dyke continued to work in film and television throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. He starred in the film 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' and the television series 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'Diagnosis: Murder'. He also made appearances in several films, including 'Night at the Museum' and its sequels.
Awards and Recognition
Van Dyke has won numerous awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He won a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway musical 'Bye Bye Birdie'. He also won a Grammy Award for Best Children's Album for his work on 'Mary Poppins'. He has won multiple Emmy Awards for his work on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'Van Dyke and Company'.
Personal Life
Van Dyke has been married twice. He was first married to Margie Willett in 1948, and they had four children together. They divorced in 1984. He then married makeup artist Arlene Silver in 2012, when he was 86 years old and she was 40.
Philanthropy
Van Dyke is also known for his philanthropic work. He is a supporter of numerous charities and organizations, including the American Heart Association and the Alzheimer's Association. He also established the Dick Van Dyke Foundation to support the arts and education.
Legacy
Dick Van Dyke has had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. He is beloved by fans around the world for his talent and charm. His contributions to film, television, and theater have earned him numerous awards and accolades. He continues to work in the industry and inspire new generations of performers.
Conclusion
Dick Van Dyke is an American icon and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His talent and charm have made him one of the most recognizable and respected performers of his generation. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to film, television, and theater, and he continues to inspire new generations of performers. His philanthropic work and dedication to the arts have made him a true American treasure.