Dick Van Dyke says outliving loved ones is the curse of living to 100

At age 99, the still sprightly legendary actor Dick Van Dyke has reflected on the sad downside of long life.

Dick Van Dyke revealed the “curse” of living to almost 100.

The Mary Poppins star, 99, admitted he’s had to say goodbye to lots of loved ones while reflecting on longtime pal Ed Asner’s death in 2021 before their remake of The Odd Couple came to fruition.

Dick Van Dyke, won the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) last year. Picture: Getty Images

He is seen here with Arlene Silver arrive at the 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles in 2012. Picture: AP Photo

“That would’ve been such fun, and we lost it. I’ve lost a lot of friends,” Van Dyke said, per People, during a recent Q&A in Malibu, California, with his wife, Arlene Silver.

“He’s outlived everybody,” Silver, 53, chimed in. “That’s the curse of living to almost 100.”

However, Silver noted that the legendary actor has remained “so positive” despite losing so many friends and co-stars over the years.

“Well, life’s been good to me. I can’t complain,” Van Dyke acknowledged.

The couple — who has been married since 2012 — also humbly bragged about their long-lasting relationship during the event.

Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes starred in the iconic film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in 1968. Picture: Getty Images

Van Dyke is also known as the star of the 1966 comedy Lt. Robin Crusoe

“We get along so well. Everybody said it wouldn’t work,” Van Dyke said, referring to their 46-year age gap.

“We just care about each other so much,” Silver agreed, saying it’s “eerie how well [the marriage] works.”

“People the same age don’t last,” she added jokingly.

The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star – whose birthday is Dec. 13 — has previously attributed his good health to a consistent fitness routine.

He’s lost many friends including comedian, director and producer Carl Reiner. Picture: AFP

“I’ve always exercised, three days a week,” he said in January on the “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” podcast.

“I get down and do a lot of stretching and yoga,” he added, explaining he uses the workout equipment to get a full body sweat.

During the episode, Van Dyke also excitedly shared that he’s looking forward to celebrating his 100th birthday.

At the time, he teased plans to host a “big party.”

Originally published as Dick Van Dyke says outliving loved ones is the curse of living to 100