Dick Van Dyke Believes Getting ‘Rid of Booze and Cigarettes’ Is Why He’s ‘Still Here’

How Quitting Booze and Cigarettes Helped Dick Van Dyke Thrive

Dick Van Dyke, the iconic actor known for his roles in classics like *Mary Poppins* and *The Dick Van Dyke Show*, recently opened up about the lifestyle changes that he believes have contributed to his remarkable longevity. At 99 years old, Van Dyke attributes his continued health and vitality largely to giving up alcohol and cigarettes many years ago.

During a special charity event held at his Malibu home, Van Dyke reflected on his past struggles with smoking and drinking, sharing candid insights about his journey toward sobriety and better health. He emphasized that eliminating these harmful habits was a turning point that helped him avoid the health pitfalls that claimed many of his contemporaries, including Walt Disney.

Reflecting on a Life Transformed

Dick Van Dyke’s career spans decades, during which he witnessed firsthand the toll that smoking and alcohol can take. He fondly recalled working with Walt Disney in the early 1960s, noting how Disney’s heavy smoking contributed to his untimely death from lung cancer in 1966. Van Dyke described Disney as a wonderful man who simply smoked too much, a habit Van Dyke himself once struggled with.

“I smoked a lot, actually,” Van Dyke admitted during the event. “I think I was probably in my 50s before it dawned on me that I had an addictive personality. If I liked something, I was going to overdo it.” Recognizing this pattern was the first step toward change.

In 1972, Van Dyke took a decisive step by checking into a hospital to address his alcoholism. This marked the beginning of a long journey to sobriety, during which he also battled to quit smoking. He has described quitting cigarettes as “twice as hard” as giving up alcohol, highlighting the immense challenge of overcoming nicotine addiction.

The Role of Positivity and Lifestyle in Longevity

Beyond quitting booze and cigarettes, Van Dyke credits his positive attitude and outlook on life as key factors in his longevity. He shared that he rarely wakes up in a bad mood and avoids anger and hatred, which he believes can be corrosive to one’s health.

“People say, ‘What did you do right?’ I don’t know. I’m rather lazy,” Van Dyke joked. “I’ve always thought that anger is one thing that eats up a person’s insides — and hate. And I never really was able to work up a feeling of hate. I think that is one of the chief things that kept me going.”

His upbeat mindset, combined with his commitment to a healthier lifestyle, has helped him maintain energy and enthusiasm for life, even as he approaches his 100th birthday.

Legacy and Looking Forward

At the recent event, Van Dyke was joined by family members, including his wife Arlene Silver, his son Barry Van Dyke, and his great-granddaughter Kyla Van Dyke. The gathering raised funds for The Van Dyke Endowment of the Arts and the Dick Van Dyke Museum, which is currently in development.

Van Dyke also recently released a book titled *100 Rules for Living to 100*, where he shares reflections on his life, career, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He emphasizes the joy he’s found in doing what he loves, stating, “I never forgot that I look forward to getting up every morning and going to work, because it’s what I would’ve done for nothing.”

His story serves as an inspiration not only for fans of his work but also for anyone looking to make positive changes for a healthier, longer life.

Conclusion

Dick Van Dyke’s experience shows that quitting harmful habits like drinking and smoking can have a profound impact on longevity and quality of life. His journey from addiction to wellness, combined with a positive outlook, offers valuable lessons for those striving to improve their health. If you’re inspired by Van Dyke’s story, consider taking steps today to eliminate unhealthy habits and embrace a lifestyle that supports your well-being. Start your journey now and discover the benefits of living healthier and happier!