Dick Van Dyke is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer, who is perhaps best known for his work in television and film. He was born on December 13, 1925, in West Plains, Missouri, USA.
Van Dyke began his career as a radio DJ and comedian, before moving into television in the 1950s. He starred in the popular sitcom "The Dick Van Dyke Show" from 1961 to 1966, for which he won three Emmy Awards. He also starred in a number of successful films, including "Mary Poppins" (1964) and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" (1968).
In addition to his acting career, Van Dyke has also written several books and has been involved in various charitable and humanitarian causes. He has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including a Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2013.
Dick Van Dyke Movies
"Bye Bye Birdie" (1963): Van Dyke played the character of Albert Peterson, a songwriter and music agent who is the manager of a popular teenage heartthrob named Conrad Birdie. He is known for his smooth talking, his charm, and his love for his longtime girlfriend, Rosie.
"Mary Poppins" (1964): Dick Van Dyke played the character of Bert, a cheerful and friendly chimney sweep who is friends with Mary Poppins. He is known for his upbeat personality, his love of singing and dancing, and his ability to jump into any profession he wants.
"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" (1968): Van Dyke played the character of Caractacus Potts, an eccentric inventor and single father who creates a magical car named Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He is known for his intelligence, creativity, and devotion to his children.
"Divorce American Style" (1967): Van Dyke played the character of Richard Harmon, a successful lawyer who is going through a divorce with his wife, Barbara. He is known for his intelligence, his quick wit, and his willingness to do whatever it takes to win.
"Fitzwilly" (1967): Van Dyke played the character of Claude Fitzwilliam, a butler who works for a wealthy woman named Miss Victoria Woodworth. He is known for his resourcefulness, his loyalty to Miss Woodworth, and his willingness to bend the rules to get what he wants.
"Night at the Museum" (2006): Van Dyke played the character of Cecil Fredericks, the former night guard at the museum who is now a resident of the museum. He is known for his sharp wit, mischievousness, and love of adventure.
"Mary Poppins Returns" (2018): Van Dyke had a cameo role as Mr. Dawes Jr., the elderly banker who is the son of the original Mr. Dawes that he played in the original "Mary Poppins" film. He is known for his stern demeanor and his love of making money.
Dick Van Dyke TV Shows
“The Phil Silvers Show” (1955-1959): In this classic sitcom, Van Dyke played a recurring role as Bilko's right-hand man, Sgt. Rupert Ritzik. The show followed the misadventures of Sgt. Bilko (Phil Silvers), a con artist and Army sergeant stationed at Fort Baxter. The show was a hit with audiences and is still considered one of the best sitcoms of all time.
“The Dick Van Dyke Show” (1961-1966): This popular sitcom starred Van Dyke as Rob Petrie, a comedy writer who worked for a television variety show. The show followed Rob's home life with his wife Laura (played by Mary Tyler Moore) and their son Ritchie, as well as his work life with his colleagues Buddy (Morey Amsterdam) and Sally (Rose Marie). The show was praised for its clever writing and sharp wit, and is considered a classic of American television.
“The New Dick Van Dyke Show” (1971-1974): This was a short-lived revival of The Dick Van Dyke Show, with Van Dyke returning to his role as comedy writer Rob Petrie. Mary Tyler Moore did not return for the new show, but many of the other original cast members did, including Morey Amsterdam and Rose Marie. The show was not as successful as the original, but still had a loyal fan base.
“Diagnosis: Murder” (1993-2001): In this crime drama series, Van Dyke played Dr. Mark Sloan, a medical doctor who also solved crimes in his spare time. The show was popular for its mix of medical drama and mystery, and was noted for its lighthearted tone and Van Dyke's charming performance as the lead character.
“The Middle” (2011-2018): In this family sitcom, Van Dyke played a recurring role as Orville "Dutch" Jenkin, the owner of a local hardware store. The show followed the daily lives of the Heck family, a middle-class family living in Indiana. Van Dyke's character was a charming and lovable addition to the show, and his scenes were always a highlight.
“Scrubs” (2004-2006): In this medical comedy-drama, Van Dyke played the recurring role of Dr. Townshend, a retired physician who served as a mentor to the main character, Dr. J.D. Dorian (Zach Braff). The show was praised for its innovative storytelling and comedic approach to the medical profession.
Overall, Dick Van Dyke has had a long and successful career in television, and has appeared in a wide variety of shows across many different genres.
Dick Van Dyke’s Awards
Primetime Emmy Awards: Van Dyke has won four Primetime Emmy Awards for his work in television. He won three awards for his performance in "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, 1964-66), and one for his performance in "Van Dyke and Company" (Outstanding Continuing or Single Performance by a Supporting Actor in Variety or Music, 1976).
Tony Awards: Van Dyke won a Tony Award in 1961 for his performance in the Broadway musical "Bye Bye Birdie." He was nominated for two other Tony Awards, for "The Girls Against the Boys" (1959) and "The Music Man" (1980).
Screen Actors Guild Awards: Van Dyke has won three Screen Actors Guild Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. He also won two awards for his performance in "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, 2012-13).
Grammy Awards: Van Dyke has won one Grammy Award, for Best Children's Album in 1964 for "Mary Poppins," on which he performed as Bert.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Van Dyke has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Kennedy Center Honors: Van Dyke received a Kennedy Center Honor in 1995, in recognition of his contributions to American culture through the performing arts.
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