Dick Van Dyke is without a doubt one of the greatest entertainers to ever grace the big or small screens. I grew up idolizing him in Mary Poppins, and I'm sure everyone has a similar story about one of his iconic roles or another. In this TV special, a musical tribute is given to Van Dyke on his astounding 98th birthday--and it is truly magical!
The basic format of this CBS special is a series of musical tributes from the likes of Zachary Levi, Rita Ora, Amber Riley, JoJo Siwa, and Jason Alexander (to name just a few) set to his many classic TV/movie song numbers. Interspersed are clips from Van Dyke's illustrious career, as well as video tributes and live interviews with the man himself. Because Dick was involved in so many iconic properties, every note and word is moving.
It is also a joy to see Van Dyke's reaction to the proceedings! His energy at 98 is quite literally unmatched and he is equal parts excited and touched here. Every time the camera turns to him, there is a smile on his face that lights up the entire venue.
Despite only being alive for half (if that) of Dick Van Dyke's storied career, I was as moved as anyone, I think, by this tribute. My childhood came to life in the Mary Poppins numbers, and I was able to see the entire breadth of Dick's body of work. There is not a person alive today I couldn't recommend "98 Years of Magic" to!