EXCLUSIVE, THIS JUST HAPPENED: Dick Van Dyke IGNORES Warnings About 46-Year Age Gap with Wife Arlene Silver—Why He’s Unbothered by the Controversy and What He Says About Their Love!

For over a decade, Dick Van Dyke, now 99 years old, and his wife Arlene Silver, 53, have defied critics who have questioned their 46-year age gap. The pair married in 2012 after meeting at the 2006 SAG Awards when Silver was working as a makeup artist. Despite the public scrutiny and concerns about their age difference, Van Dyke and Silver’s relationship has remained strong and loving.

In a recent interview, Van Dyke shared his thoughts on how their marriage works so well and why he’s never been bothered by the backlash. “It’s eerie how well it works,” Van Dyke said, a testament to the deep bond they share. “We get along so well. People the same age don’t last,” said Silver, adding, “He’s made me feel like I can do anything.”

While they face an age gap that many find hard to accept, Van Dyke and Silver’s relationship has flourished because of their mutual respect, love, and shared passions. They both love to sing and dance together, and their connection goes far beyond just the superficialities of age.

Defying Expectations and Building a Life Together

When Van Dyke first met Silver, it was a case of instant attraction. Despite his age, Van Dyke says there was something about Silver that caught his attention right away. “I never said hello to a strange girl in my life,” he confessed, “but I was at a show backstage, and she walked by, and for some reason, I just jumped up and said, ‘Hi, I’m Dick.’ There’s something about her that got me, and I was right.”

Though they faced some early criticism for their age difference, they’ve never let it affect their relationship. In fact, Van Dyke admits that he worried the public might view Silver as a “gold digger” because of their age gap. But as he revealed, “No one ever took that attitude. I think it’s because she can go with the flow, she loves to sing and dance, and we just have a great time together.”

Their shared love for music and dancing has been a cornerstone of their marriage. Van Dyke continues to stay active, exercising three days a week and even doing water aerobics and weight lifting. For him, staying physically fit and keeping busy has helped him maintain his youthful energy. “Keep moving is the main thing,” he said, offering advice for aging well.

The Challenges of the Age Gap

However, they’ve also had to navigate the challenges that come with such a significant age gap. Van Dyke admits that, at times, he forgets about their difference in years. “I sometimes forget that we’re doing a great experiment here—46 years difference,” he laughed. “And we work at it to some extent. There’s got to be some understanding, find out what old habits don’t work anymore. It takes some adjusting and fitting in, but that’s part of the fun of it.”

Silver echoes this sentiment, calling their relationship “blissful” and sharing her admiration for Van Dyke. “He is the most perfect human being,” she gushed. “I’ve never met anyone so happy, so genuine, so amazing. He’s just like a happy pill.”

Despite the hurdles, Van Dyke is determined to keep moving forward and enjoy life to its fullest. He reflects on his life with Silver, saying, “We just care about each other so much.” He credits their success as a couple to their mutual appreciation for each other’s company and shared experiences.

Van Dyke’s Approach to Aging and Longevity

Van Dyke is known for his infectious optimism and zest for life, which have likely played a role in his remarkable longevity. He believes in the importance of staying active, both physically and mentally, and credits his longevity to “good genes” and not getting “hit by a bus.” He stays fit by going to the gym three times a week, swimming, and keeping his mind active by continuing to perform. He also enjoys doing water aerobics and weightlifting, all of which contribute to his continued vitality.

His approach to aging is a reflection of his lifelong attitude: “I’ve always been an exerciser and still am. At my age, they say to keep moving. Put me on solid ground and I’ll start tapping,” he quipped.

Van Dyke’s secret to staying youthful and healthy is rooted in positivity and staying active, both physically and emotionally. He frequently talks about the importance of enjoying life, even as you age. His outlook on life, especially as he approaches his centennial milestone, is an inspiration to fans and those who admire his energy and spirit.

Public Perception and Overcoming Criticism

While their marriage has been met with some skepticism from the public due to their age gap, Van Dyke and Silver have found a way to make their relationship work despite the outside noise. As Van Dyke put it, “It’s a great experiment… but we work at it.” He has also opened up about the impact their age gap had on his perception of their relationship in the early stages. “I thought there would be an outcry about a gold digger marrying an old man,” he admitted, but it was a concern that ultimately never materialized.

Their ability to rise above the criticism and focus on the love they share has been one of the defining aspects of their relationship. They continue to enjoy their time together, sharing a love for dancing, music, and a life filled with gratitude. Van Dyke often speaks of their home in Malibu, where they enjoy spending quiet evenings together.

A Legacy of Joy and Inspiration

Dick Van Dyke’s story is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the importance of staying active, no matter your age. His relationship with Arlene Silver has proven that love can defy expectations and flourish, even when others doubt its success. In the face of criticism, they’ve built a life together that defies convention, and their enduring happiness serves as an inspiration to those who believe that love knows no bounds.

For Van Dyke, aging is not about slowing down; it’s about enjoying every moment and continuing to move forward, one step at a time. His approach to life is a reminder that, no matter the age gap, love and commitment can lead to a fulfilling and joyful life.