Dick Van Dyke Found Unexpected Love with a Makeup Artist Half His Age

Dick Van Dyke, the Hollywood icon, found a new love who helped him during his darkest time. At almost 50 years younger than him, she brought joy back into his life.

Born Richard Wayne Van Dyke in Missouri, he became one of the most loved entertainers of his time. He gained fame with his Tony-winning role in Bye Bye Birdie in 1960, followed by the 1963 movie version. His charm shone in classics like Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Over the years, he won four Emmys and became a TV legend.

Before fame, in Danville, Illinois, Van Dyke dated Margie Willett, who became his first wife. In 1948, they married on a live radio show because they couldn’t afford a wedding. Margie didn’t care for Hollywood glamour, focusing instead on their family, despite challenges like a miscarriage. They had four children together, and Van Dyke said he was proud of their family, even admitting he struggled with alcoholism for 25 years, which affected them all.

When Van Dyke entered rehab, he learned Margie had her struggles with antidepressants. They eventually grew apart and divorced in 1984. During this time, he met Michelle Triola, who understood his life in show business. Their relationship started as an affair but turned into 35 happy years together after his divorce.

Van Dyke faced heartbreak again when Margie passed away in 2008. A year later, Michelle died of lung cancer. He stayed by her side until the end, singing and talking to her. Losing her left him without a companion for the first time in his life.

In 2006, he met Arlene Silver, a makeup artist 46 years younger than him, at the SAG Awards. He introduced himself, and they became friends. After Michelle’s passing, their friendship grew into love. By 2011, Arlene moved in with him, and they married in 2012.

Many questioned their age difference, but Van Dyke said it didn’t matter. “I’m emotionally immature, and Arlene is wise for her age. We meet in the middle,” he said. Arlene agreed, saying, “When you see us together, the age gap doesn’t matter.”

Their family grew to accept their love, with Van Dyke’s son later saying, “Dad, I get it.” Arlene brought new energy into his life, keeping him healthy and happy. He credited her with helping him stay active, including regular gym visits, even at 98 years old.

Van Dyke also stayed passionate about the arts. He donated $3 million to Malibu public schools to save theater programs. The Arlene and Dick Van Dyke Theater at Malibu High School honors his legacy.

Dick Van Dyke’s life has been filled with love, loss, and resilience. From his marriage to Margie, his partnership with Michelle, and his joyful life with Arlene, he proves that it’s never too late to find happiness.