Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver’s love story began at the SAG Awards in 2006. Van Dyke, then 80, was an attendee, and Silver, a makeup artist, was working at the event. Van Dyke was immediately struck by her beautiful eyes. “There was something about her beautiful eyes,” he shared with PEOPLE. Silver, although she recognized Van Dyke, didn’t immediately place where she knew him from. “I knew him, I just didn’t know how I knew him,” Silver said. They quickly connected, and Van Dyke hired her for other projects.
How Did They Fall in Love?
Their relationship deepened through mutual care and support. Van Dyke’s longtime love, Michelle Triola, passed away in 2009, leaving him heartbroken. During this tough period, Silver was a pillar of support. “Arlene would come by after work and bring me food,” Van Dyke told PEOPLE. “She was such a support, I fell in love.” Silver’s consistent presence and compassion helped Van Dyke through his grief. By 2011, she had moved into Van Dyke’s Malibu home.
When Did They Get Married?
Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver got married on February 29, 2012. They chose Leap Day for their wedding, which they found charming and unique. “It was on the spur of the moment, we just decided Leap Day would be the best time to do it,” Van Dyke told PEOPLE. They celebrate their anniversary on February 28 every non-leap year. Their marriage, despite the significant age difference, brought immense joy to Van Dyke’s life. His publicist, Bob Palmer, noted, “Despite their obvious age difference, Dick has never been happier.”
How Has Van Dyke’s Family Embraced Arlene Silver?
Initially, Van Dyke was concerned about how his family would react to his relationship with a much younger woman. However, his fears were unfounded. Van Dyke’s family warmly welcomed Silver into their lives. “My grandkids call her Grandma,” Van Dyke revealed. “My four kids just love her.” This acceptance brought even more happiness and stability to their relationship.
What Are Their Shared Interests?
One of the things that brought Van Dyke and Silver closer is their mutual love for singing and dancing. They often perform together, particularly with Van Dyke’s a cappella group, the Vantastix. “Mostly we sing and dance together,” Van Dyke told the Malibu Times. Silver echoed this sentiment, saying, “I’ve learned so many songs with Dick. Countless. He loves to sing all the time.” Their home is often filled with music and joy, as they frequently engage in impromptu performances.
How Did Arlene Silver’s Career Influence Their Relationship?
Arlene Silver is not just Van Dyke’s wife but also a talented singer and dancer. In February 2022, she directed a music video for the band Arlene & the Vantastix. The video was for their rendition of Doris Day’s 1958 hit “Everybody Loves a Lover.” Van Dyke starred alongside Silver in the video, which featured them dancing through an art installation in Los Angeles. The video included a nod to Van Dyke’s iconic ottoman trip from “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which he humorously avoided in the video.
How Have They Handled Challenges Together?
In March 2023, Silver’s support was crucial when Van Dyke had a car accident. He crashed into a gate in Malibu and sustained minor injuries. Silver stepped in to care for him immediately. Her presence and care ensured Van Dyke’s swift recovery. “We take very good care of each other,” Silver told the Huffington Post. “But I’m very aware that I have a national treasure on my hands.”
What Public Appearances Have They Made Together?
Van Dyke and Silver are often seen together at various events. They love attending red carpet events and have been photographed at numerous high-profile occasions. For example, they attended the premiere of “Mary Poppins Returns,” where Van Dyke had a cameo. Silver accompanied him, looking stunning in a maroon gown. She was also by his side when he received a medallion at the 2021 Kennedy Center Honors, celebrating his lifetime of contributions to American culture.
How Did Silver Inspire Van Dyke’s Performance on The Masked Singer?
In February 2023, Van Dyke appeared on “The Masked Singer,” performing Frank Sinatra’s “When You’re Smiling.” Silver played a significant role in choosing the song for his performance. “They wanted me to do something current and I know nothing from rock,” Van Dyke said. “So we picked out one which typifies me. She’s the one that came up with it and I liked the song, too.” Silver’s influence and support continue to be a guiding force in Van Dyke’s life and career.
What’s Their Secret to a Happy Marriage?
The secret to Van Dyke and Silver’s happy marriage seems to lie in their mutual respect, love, and shared interests. Van Dyke has often expressed how Silver has made him the happiest man in the world. “She is the best wife,” he told the Malibu Times. “She’s made me the happiest man in the world.” Their love story is a testament to the power of love and companionship, regardless of age differences. Silver summed it up perfectly: “He’s the perfect human being but he’s also the perfect partner.”
In summary, Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver’s relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect, love, and shared passions. They have navigated life’s challenges together, bringing joy and happiness into each other’s lives. Their story is a beautiful example of how love can flourish at any age.