Dick Van Dyke is set to celebrate his 98th birthday with a CBS special.
The legendary actor – who will turn 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 honoured that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!”
The special is set to air on CBS on December 21. The show will feature songs and archival footage from various milestone moments in his career, including appearances in ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.
Despite his success, Dick actually battled an alcohol addiction for 25 years of his life.
The actor 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 to my children, but I was an alcoholic for 25 years, which inevitably impacted on family life.
“When I went into therapy, I realised I was repeating my father’s mistakes. He often came home drunk after lengthy road trips and my mother threatened to walk out unless he quit – which he did.
“When I pledged to quit and entered a rehab clinic, Margie checked in as I checked out. I thought she’d come to pick me up, but it turned out she was hooked on antidepressants. I had no idea. What a pair.”
