Dick Van Dyke
Dick Van Dyke
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Overview

Dick Van Dyke, born Richard Wayne Van Dyke on December 13, 1925, is an American actor, singer, dancer, and comedian with a career spanning over seven decades. Known for his affable charm, comedic timing, and physical comedy, Van Dyke has made significant contributions to film, television, and theater.
Main Milestones
Birth
December 13, 1925
Dick Van Dyke was born in West Plains, Missouri, to Loren Wayne 'Cookie' Van Dyke, a salesman, and Hazel Victoria, a stenographer.
Early Career and Military Service
1940s
Van Dyke served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, working as a radio announcer and performing in service shows. After his discharge in 1946, he briefly opened an advertising agency in Danville, Illinois, before turning to show business.
Comedy Pantomime Act
1947-1953
Van Dyke and a partner performed in nightclubs with a comedy pantomime act billed as the Merry Mutes.
Broadway Debut
1959
Van Dyke made his Broadway debut in the musical revue 'The Girls Against the Boys'.
Breakthrough Role in 'Bye Bye Birdie'
1960-1961
Van Dyke starred in the original musical 'Bye Bye Birdie', winning a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.
The Dick Van Dyke Show
1961-1966
Van Dyke played the lead role of Rob Petrie in the CBS sitcom 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', which became a huge success and cemented his status as a television star.
Mary Poppins
1964
Van Dyke starred in the film 'Mary Poppins', which won several Academy Awards and further established his film career.
Diagnosis: Murder
1993-2001
Van Dyke starred in the television series 'Diagnosis: Murder', playing the role of Dr. Mark Sloan, and also served as a producer and writer for the show.
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
2014
Van Dyke appeared in the film 'Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb', demonstrating his continued versatility and longevity in the entertainment industry.
Current Status
2025
At 99 years old, Dick Van Dyke remains an iconic figure in American entertainment, celebrated for his extensive and diverse career.