“Dick Van Dyke 98 Years Of Magic” Coming To CBS

The special program will highlight the unparalleled career of television and film legend, Dick Van Dyke. 

Dick Van Dyke is an American entertainment legend, with an outstanding career spanning more than seven decades, five Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and the SAG Lifetime Achievement Award. Van Dyke was also inducted into the Television Hall of Fame and has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

The beloved entertainer will turn 98 on December 13, 2023. To celebrate the birthday, as well as to highlight his impressive career, CBS will be airing a special tribute, Dick Van Dyke 98 Years Of Magic. The program will transport viewers back to the iconic set of The Dick Van Dyke Show and feature music and dance, performances and special guests, as well as a holiday number. 

“I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years, and I couldn’t be prouder,” said Van Dyke. “I’m incredibly honored that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!” 

The two-hour show will air on Thursday, Dec. 21st at 9:00 PM ET on the CBS Television Network, and will stream on Paramount+. 

A look back at Dick Van Dyke’s life and career: 

Richard Wayne (Dick) Van Dyke was born on December 13, 1925 in West Plains, Missouri. Participation in his high school drama program convinced Van Dyke to pursue a career as a professional entertainer. However, when World War II hit during his senior year, he joined the United States Air Force, where he bounced around between jobs before being discharged in 1946. 

Van Dyke’s start in television was with New Orleans Channel 6 (NBC), first as a single comedian and later as emcee of a comedy program. During that time a friend from the military was working as an executive for CBS Television and recommended Van Dyke to his team. Van Dyke signed a 7-year contract with CBS which was the beginning of a decades-long relationship with the network. 

In the 1960s, Van Dyke achieved stardom with leading roles in the wildly popular productions Bye Bye Birdie and Mary Poppins. Shortly after, he starred in the CBS sitcom, The Dick Van Dyke Show, which ran for five years and won four Emmy Awards. 

In the decades following, Van Dyke has continued to work as an actor in both television and film, even dabbling in reality TV. He is an entertainment icon who has inspired generations of performers and has made immeasurable contributions to the arts.