Dick Van Dyke will celebrate his 98th birthday with a CBS special.
The legendary actor – who turns 98 on December 13 – has enjoyed a hugely successful career in the entertainment industry, and CBS plans to celebrate his achievements with an upcoming special called ‘Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic.’
The award-winning star said in a statement: “I started with CBS under contract in 1955 with the CBS morning show, then ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’ and ‘Diagnosis Murder.’
“I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years and I couldn’t be prouder. I’m incredibly honored that CBS will do a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be a part of the show! “
The special is set to be broadcast on CBS on 21 December. The show will feature songs and archive footage from various milestone moments in his career, including appearances in ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.
Despite his success, Dick actually struggled with an alcohol addiction for 25 years of his life.
The actor has previously admitted that his addiction damaged his family life.
Dick – who was married to Margie Willett between 1948 and 1984 – told the Guardian newspaper: “I tried to be a good role model for my children but I was an alcoholic for 25 years which inevitably affected family life.
“When I went to therapy, I realized that I was repeating my father’s mistakes. He often came home drunk after long car rides, and my mother threatened to walk out unless he stopped – which he did.
“When I promised to quit and entered rehab, Margie checked in when I checked out. I thought she was coming to get me, but it turns out she was hooked on anti-depressants. I had no idea. What a couple.”
