Dick Van Dyke made a special public appearance, alongside his wife Arlene Silver, when they attended the new exhibit featuring the works of his longtime photographer Laura Johansen.
Moments In Time Portraits By Laura Johansen, which focuses on the past decade of Van Dyke’s life, opened on Sunday at Malibu City Hall.
The Mary Poppins legend, who happens to be gearing up for his 98th birthday special for CBS, arrived with family and friends by his side, on what turned out to be another gorgeous Southern California day.
Still looking sprightly, the living legend was first seen driving in the front passenger’s seat with his wife, and then moments later making his way to the entrance doors.
Johansen’s work captured the iconic actor and entertainer during a number of important milestone, such as his Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in 2021.
Sporting a full beard and mustache, Van Dyke looked amazing dressed in a tweed blazer with black pants, a white dress shirt, black pants and matching sneakers.
The West Plains, Missouri native looked to be in a grand mood, while walking on his own, with the slight help of a cane, with wife Arlene to his right.
Johansen can be seen walking just behind Van Dyke before and after attending her photo art exhibit.
Silver, 52, whose now been married with Van Dyke for more than 11 years, was all smiles next to her husband in an all-black ensemble consisting of slacks and a matching plunging top.
One of his four children, Barry Van Dyke, was also seen lending his support for his father and Johansen’s photography.
The previous couple of days the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star promoted the opening of the exhibit, which went from noon to 2:30pm PT, on his Instagram page.
In the caption he revealed how ‘so many never before seen pictures and prints will be available for purchase.’
A video featuring several pieces from the collection was shared on the actor’s official Instagram page, encouraging fans to come visit the exhibit.
The couple ended up leaving the reception after Van Dyke took some questions for about an hour in the auditorium.
Fans will also be able to celebrate the iconic entertainer’s life and career when CBS airs Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic special, in honor of his 98th birthday.
‘I started with CBS under contract in 1955 with the CBS morning show, then The Dick Van Dyke Show and Diagnosis Murder,’ Van Dyke said in a statement, as reported by People, before adding, ‘I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years, and I couldn’t be prouder.’
He continued, ‘I’m incredibly honored that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!’
An official description of the special reads: ‘A Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award winner, Van Dyke has inspired generations of performers and will be honored for his contributions to the arts and entertainment.
‘The tribute will travel back in time to the iconic set of The Dick Van Dyke Show and feature music and dance, performances, special guests and a special holiday number.’
It goes on to add: ‘The two-hour tribute event will also showcase songs and archival footage from the best of his nearly full-century career, encompassing Mary Poppins, Bye Bye Birdie, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and more.’
Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic is set to air on Thursday, December 21 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
