Iconic Actor, 99, Discusses 46-Year Age Difference With Wife

As he nears his centennial milestone, Dick Van Dyke is sharing heartfelt thoughts about a key figure in his life his wife, Arlene Silver. The couple, married for more than ten years and together even longer, have often drawn attention due to their 46-year age difference.

The two first crossed paths backstage at the SAG Awards in 2006, when Silver was 35 and Van Dyke was 81. Recalling their initial encounter, Van Dyke says he instantly felt a connection with Silver, who was then working as a makeup artist. I had never approached a stranger woman in my life, Van Dyke told PEOPLE in an interview. She walked by, and without thinking, I jumped up and said, Hi, I'm Dick. I asked her to sit, discovered she was a makeup artist, and hired her right away.

Despite their significant age gap, Van Dyke emphasizes that it has never been a challenge in their relationship. We wondered if it might be an issue to some extent, but it hasnt been, he explained. I tend to be a bit childlike Id say Im about 13 in spirit and she is very mature for her age, so age has never been a problem for us.

Van Dyke expresses deep gratitude for Silver, crediting her with maintaining his youthful energy and zest for life. She keeps me in the moment, he said. She brings happiness to every day, encourages me to sing or dance, and manages so much responsibility. I am just very fortunate.

This article was first published by Parade on November 26, 2025, in their News section.

Author: Sophia Brooks