CBS celebrates the accomplished life of Dick Van Dyke this December with a special tribute to the actor. The network presents Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic to honor the icon on his 98th birthday on December 21.
The Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning actor is one of the most beloved talents in the entertainment industry with a career spanning nearly an entire century. The two-hour special will venture back to the set of The Dick Van Dyke Show as well as feature musical and dance performances, special guests, and a “magical holiday number,” said CBS Television Network.
The tribute will also showcase songs and archival footage featuring the best of his work from films like Mary Poppins, Bye Bye Birdie, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, to name a few.
“I started with CBS under contract in 1955 with the CBS Morning Show, then The Dick Van Dyke Show, and Diagnosis Murder,” said Van Dyke. “I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years, and I couldn’t be prouder. I’m incredibly honored that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!”
Van Dyke began his career on the radio before hosting CBS Morning Show with news anchor Walter Cronkite and news copywriter Babara Walters. His first series, The Dick Van Dyke Show, ran from 1961 to 1966. The show was a hit with audiences for Van Dyke’s comedic timing and talent for physical comedy, earning 15 Emmy Awards during its run. He went on to have an impressive career which included The Carol Burnett Show, Mary Poppins, Dick Tracy, and Night at the Museum.
The tribute is executive produced by Craig and Clara Plestis of Smart Dog Media, as well as Deena Katz. Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver, his wife, will produce along with White Label Productions.
Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic will air at 9:00 p.m. on the CBS Television Network and stream on Paramount+ on December 21. Paramount+ with Showtime members can find the special through the live feed of their local CBS affiliate and on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers can access the tribute on-demand the day after it airs.
Image credit: CBS