Inspiring generations of performers, Dick Van Dyke will be honored for his incredible contributions to the arts and entertainment world when CBS broadcasts the two-hour primetime special, “Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic,” celebrating the legendary career of the iconic actor best known for his performances in “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and “Mary Poppins.” The special will air on Thursday, December 21 from 9:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT.
“I started with CBS under contract in 1955 with the CBS morning show, then ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’ and ‘Diagnosis Murder,’” said Van Dyke in reminiscing about his time working for the network. “I’ve been with the CBS family for almost 70 years, and I couldn’t be prouder. I’m incredibly honored that CBS will be throwing a 98th birthday special for me. Can’t wait to be part of the show!”
According to the network, the special tribute will travel back in time to the iconic set of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and feature dazzling music and dance spectacles, heartfelt performances, special guests and a magical holiday number.
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.
Executive produced by Craig and Clara Plestis of Smart Dog Media, the special will be broadcast on Thursday, December 21 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS and will also stream live and On Demand on Paramount+*. Deena Katz will cast and executive produce, with Ashley Edens serving as showrunner and Dick Van Dyke and his wife, Arlene Silver, producing along with White Label Productions.
Born December 13, 1925, the Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award winner most recently guest starred on episodes of “Days of our Lives,” playing the biological father of John Black (Drake Hogestyn). It was revealed that Van Dyke’s character, Timothy Robicheaux, was wounded during the Korean War and left for dead by a fellow soldier.
Watch clips from his “Days of our Lives” appearance below.
Note*: Live and On Demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to On Demand the day after the special airs.