Beloved entertainer Dick Van Dyke has candidly discussed the significant age difference in his marriage, revealing why it has never been a problem for him and his wife, Arlene Silver.
A Youthful Spirit in a Century-Long Life
As he approaches his 100th birthday in December 2025, the legendary actor appeared on the Today Show, radiating vitality. He spoke openly about his union with make-up artist Arlene Silver, who is 54, creating a 46-year age gap. Van Dyke charmingly attributed the success of their relationship to his own "infantile" character and his wife's comparative maturity.
"Despite any initial concerns, the age difference has not been an issue," Van Dyke explained, highlighting how their personalities complement each other perfectly.
The Foundation of a Lasting Romance
The couple's story began professionally. They first met in 2006 but their relationship remained platonic for years. Their romance blossomed only after the passing of Van Dyke's long-term partner in 2009. This shared experience of loss and healing brought them closer, and they eventually married in 2012.
Van Dyke credits Silver with profoundly impacting his happiness and outlook. He shared that his wife has a remarkable talent for keeping him "in the moment", a quality that he says helps him feel vibrant and young despite his advancing years.
Secrets to a Centenarian's Fulfilment
While promoting his new book, 100 Rules for Living to 100, the Mary Poppins star divulged some of his personal guidelines for a long and satisfying life. A central tenet of his philosophy is the conscious avoidance of negative emotions.
"Avoiding anger and hate has been key to my longevity," Van Dyke stated. However, he also recently confessed to feeling a sense of "diminished" spirit, primarily due to the profound loss of many close friends over the years.
Despite this sorrow, his marriage to Arlene Silver remains a cornerstone of his joy, proving that for Dick Van Dyke, love and a youthful heart are the most powerful elixirs of life.
