Happy 100th Birthday to Disney Legend, Dick Van Dyke! Step in Time, fan favorite and a true Disney Legend, turns 100 years old today! Yes, 100, such a huge milestone! Disney fans are quite familiar with Mr. Van Dyke, he has been a huge part of so many childhoods and beyond. For me, I first remember him from his iconic role in Disney’s Mary Poppins. I recall being quite small and singing songs from this film, as I’m sure other kids did as well. Now as an adult, I see just how much he has done and the fact that he worked with Walt Disney really tugs on my heart. Let’s learn more about Dick Van Dyke on his big day.
Dick Van Dyke has quite a history with the Disney company that goes back more than 60 years. It all kicked off with his unforgettable double role in Mary Poppins in 1964. I think most of us have fond memories of this one! Since then, he’s been seen in many Disney movies, TV specials, and documentaries, basically becoming a beloved, unofficial ambassador for all things Disney. He became an official Disney Legend in 1998. Here’s a quick rundown of Van Dyke’s Disney career.
Movie Roles
Mary Poppins (1964): Played the beloved Bert, the happy-go-lucky chimney sweep, as well as Mr. Dawes Sr., the old banker. He even shared a Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album for his work on the film.
Lt. Robin Crusoe, U.S.N. (1966): Took on the lead role in this comedy, which is extra fun trivia-wise since it marked the only time Walt Disney ever received an official story credit for a movie (using the name “Retlaw Yensid”).
Never a Dull Moment (1968): Starred as Jack Albany, an actor who accidentally gets mixed up with a real hitman.
Dick Tracy (1990): Appeared as D.A. Fletcher in this film released under Disney’s Touchstone label.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (2014): Made a surprise, uncredited cameo as himself.
Mary Poppins Returns (2018): Came back to the Mary Poppins world at age 92 as Mr. Dawes Jr., even delivering a memorable tap-dance right on top of a desk.
TV and Documentary Work
Documentary Narrator: Served as the narrator for Walt: The Man Behind the Myth (2001).
TV Special Host: Hosted several big Disney TV events, including Donald Duck’s 50th Birthday (1984) and the Golden Anniversary of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1987).
EPCOT Sneak Peek: Gave viewers an early look at EPCOT Center during the 1981 TV special Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream.
Voice Acting: Voiced Captain Goof-Beard, Goofy’s grandfather, on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (2014).
The Golden Girls (1989): Popped up as guest star Ken on this Touchstone Television favorite.
Honors and Recognition
Disney Legend (1998): Officially honored as a Disney Legend for his lasting impact on the company.
Candlelight Processional: Narrated Disneyland’s Candlelight Processional in 1965, the last one ever attended by Walt Disney.
Walt Disney Family Museum: Featured in a permanent exhibit that highlights his role in explaining the optical printer and its importance in Disney filmmaking.
You may also enjoy- Dick Van Dyke: 100th Celebration — Trailer Debuts and Tickets On Sale for Fathom Entertainment Birthday Tribute in Theaters Dec 13–14, 2025
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