The 46-Year Gap: Everything To Know About Dick Van Dyke's Wife, Arlene Silver, And Their Unconventional Love Story
The Complete Biography and Relationship Timeline of Dick Van Dyke
To fully understand Dick Van Dyke's current life with Arlene Silver, it is essential to look back at the long and storied personal history of one of Hollywood's most enduring entertainers.
- Full Name: Richard Wayne Van Dyke
- Date of Birth: December 13, 1925
- Current Age: 99 (Turning 100 in December 2025)
- Place of Birth: West Plains, Missouri, U.S.
- Known For: *The Dick Van Dyke Show*, *Mary Poppins*, *Chitty Chitty Bang Bang*, *Diagnosis: Murder*.
- Spouses:
- Margie Willett: Married 1948, Divorced 1984. (Met as teenagers in his hometown)
- Arlene Silver: Married February 29, 2012.
- Long-Term Partner (Between Marriages): Michelle Triola Marvin (relationship ended with her death in 2009).
- Children (with Margie Willett): Four children: Christian Van Dyke, Barry Van Dyke, Stacy Van Dyke, and Carrie Beth Van Dyke.
- Notable Family: Brother is actor Jerry Van Dyke. Son, Barry Van Dyke, is also an actor and former co-star on *Diagnosis: Murder*.
Who is Arlene Silver? The Makeup Artist Who Captured His Heart
Arlene Silver is much more than just the wife of a Hollywood legend; she is a professional in her own right, with a background in the entertainment industry that ultimately led her to meet her husband. Born on September 21, 1971, Arlene is currently 54 years old and has a vibrant career history.
From Backstage to Center Stage: Arlene Silver's Career
Arlene Silver's primary profession was as a skilled makeup artist, a role that placed her at the heart of Hollywood events and productions.
- The Meeting: She and Dick Van Dyke first crossed paths in 2006 at the SAG Awards (Screen Actors Guild Awards), where she was working backstage.
- Early Career: Before their marriage, Arlene worked professionally as a makeup artist in the entertainment industry.
- Acting Roles: She has also been credited as an actress, with a role on the soap opera *Days of Our Lives*.
- Current Projects: Today, Arlene is often seen performing alongside her husband in their local Malibu performance troupe, known as "Vandy Camp." This carnival-like group allows the couple to share their love of music and performance with their community.
The couple dated for two years before Arlene moved into Dick’s Malibu home in 2011. They married in an intimate ceremony on February 29, 2012, a leap day wedding that perfectly encapsulates their fun-loving spirit.
The 46-Year Age Gap and The Secret to Their Longevity
The most discussed aspect of Dick Van Dyke and Arlene Silver's relationship is the significant 46-year age difference. When they married in 2012, Dick was 86 and Arlene was 40. This gap has been a topic of curiosity for fans and the media, but the couple has openly addressed it, emphasizing that their connection is what truly matters.
Arlene has often spoken about her husband's youthful spirit, noting that he is "a lot of fun" and "not immature in a bad way." For his part, Dick Van Dyke has credited Arlene with bringing energy and light into his later years. Their relationship is built on shared interests, including music, dancing, and a commitment to maintaining a positive, active lifestyle.
The couple’s shared passion for performance is a key to their success. They frequently host community events, such as their annual Halloween show where Arlene recently performed as the character Ursula. Dick Van Dyke lovingly watches his wife from the side of the stage, highlighting their supportive partnership.
Dick Van Dyke's 100th Birthday Plans and Recent News
As Dick Van Dyke approaches his 100th birthday on December 13, 2025, Arlene Silver has been the source of the latest updates on his plans. While a major public celebration is anticipated, Arlene revealed that her husband’s most desired celebration is a simple, quiet one: "He’ll be in his room watching *Jeopardy*," she joked, emphasizing his low-key nature despite his fame.
However, their life has not been without recent challenges. In a piece of fresh and sensitive news, Arlene Silver recently claimed that she was being targeted by a stalker, an unfortunate reality that sometimes comes with being in the public eye. This situation underscores the protective role Arlene has taken on, managing both the joys and the pressures of their high-profile life together.
Dick Van Dyke's Family and Previous Marriages
Before his marriage to Arlene Silver, Dick Van Dyke was married once and had a long-term relationship with a partner who was not his wife.
First Wife: Margie Willett (1948–1984)
Dick Van Dyke's first wife was Margie Willett. They met when they were teenagers in his hometown of West Plains, Missouri, and were married in 1948. Their wedding was a unique public event, taking place on the radio show "Bride and Groom." The couple had four children together: Christian, Barry, Stacy, and Carrie Beth. They separated in the early 1980s and officially divorced in 1984. Dick Van Dyke remains a devoted father, often expressing pride in how his four children have turned out in life.
Long-Term Partner: Michelle Triola Marvin
Following his separation from Margie Willett, Dick Van Dyke entered a long-term relationship with Michelle Triola Marvin, which lasted for many years until her death in 2009. This relationship, though not a marriage, was a significant part of his life before he met Arlene Silver. The three major relationships—Margie Willett, Michelle Triola Marvin, and now Arlene Silver—form the full picture of Dick Van Dyke's romantic journey.
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