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Dick Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene Silver, have lived an enchanting love story worthy of the best movie romances.
As the legendary actor celebrated his 98th birthday with a special CBS tribute, fans were reminded that age is just a number for this dynamic duo, who have shared nearly 12 years of wedded bliss.
Dick Van Dyke, celebrated for his iconic roles in films like Mary Poppins and Night at the Museum, turned heads once again as he graced the screen in a special titled “Dick Van Dyke 98 Years Of Magic.”
However, it’s not just the magic of the movies that has kept fans captivated; it’s the real-life fairytale unfolding between Dick and his beloved wife, Arlene Silver.
How did Arlene and Dick meet?
The love story began in 2006 when Dick and Arlene crossed paths at the SAG Awards ceremony.
Arlene, a makeup artist at the time, recalls the moment vividly: “I remember seeing Dick at the catering table with his bow tie and his big smile. Right when I sat down, he was sitting next to me. He said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick.’ The first thing I asked him was, ‘Weren’t you in Mary Poppins?'”
Despite a 46-year age difference and Arlene’s initial unfamiliarity with Dick’s extensive career, the two hit it off.
Initially friends, their relationship blossomed into romance after the passing of Dick’s long-time partner, Michelle Triola, in 2009.
Arlene became a source of support during Dick’s grieving process, and their bond deepened into a love that defied age.
Dick Van Dyke, in his signature lighthearted manner, shared, “She’s very mature for her age and I’m very immature for my age, so it’s just about right!”Arlene echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the youthful and fun aspects of their relationship: “He’s not stuck in his ways at all. We’re both like children. We feel like we’re both having a second childhood.”
Arlene Silver: Dick is definitely my prince
Addressing their ageless love, in 2012 Arlene revealed their plans for a show about their marriage and home life, a unique glimpse into their extraordinary relationship.
She expressed, “It’s like a modern-day My Fair Lady. Every day, we still don’t believe that this is our life. Dick is definitely my prince!”
Throughout their 11-year marriage, Dick and Arlene have been a fixture at Hollywood events, including Dick’s honors at the 2021 Kennedy Center and his appearance on The Masked Singer.
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