Dick Van Dyke Reflects on Life and Embraces Turning 99: “I’m Not Afraid of Death”
Beloved Hollywood icon Dick Van Dyke, known for his roles in Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, has shared his thoughts on aging and mortality as he approaches his 99th birthday on December 13. Despite acknowledging his age and the inevitability of death, the actor expressed a remarkable sense of peace and optimism.
“I could go any day now,” Van Dyke admitted. “But I don’t know why—it doesn’t concern me. I’m not afraid of it. I have this feeling, completely beyond logic, that I’m going to be alright.”
Van Dyke made these heartfelt remarks while appearing in Coldplay’s latest music video for their song All My Love, from their 10th studio album, Moon Music. The video, filmed at Van Dyke’s Malibu home, features a mix of performances and personal reflections from the legendary actor.
A Life of Love and Reflection
In the video’s director’s cut, Van Dyke shares touching insights on love and family while duetting with Coldplay’s Chris Martin and even dancing. When asked what love means to him, he offered a thoughtful reply:
“Love is caring about the welfare and life of another person as much as you care for yourself. People have been trying to define it for centuries, but that’s what it feels like to me.”
Van Dyke also reminisced about his late first wife, Margie Willett, and their children, including his daughter Stacy. Looking at an old photograph of them together, he shared an emotional memory:
“I’ve had dreams where I felt sad, lonely, or hurt, and Stacy would come to comfort me. It’s like she actually comes to comfort me.”
The actor’s humor shines through as well. At one point, when asked to close his eyes and think about people who have influenced his life, he joked, “I’m too old for this—I’ll pass out, take a nap!”
The video concludes with Van Dyke sharing laughter and hugs with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Martin then sings an impromptu song celebrating the joys and challenges of old age, ending the clip on a cheerful note.
Celebrating a Storied Career
Van Dyke’s illustrious career spans over seven decades, earning him multiple Emmy Awards and a Grammy for the Mary Poppins soundtrack. He has continued to work well into his later years, including a cameo in Mary Poppins Returns (2018), the sequel to the 1964 classic that catapulted him to fame.
Despite a car accident last year in his home state of California, Van Dyke avoided serious injuries and has shown no signs of slowing down.
To commemorate his milestone birthday, a shorter version of Coldplay’s music video will be released on December 13.
Van Dyke’s reflections and spirited participation in the project serve as a reminder of his enduring optimism, humor, and zest for life—qualities that have endeared him to fans for generations.
