Overview
- Van Dyke made the remarks during a Vandy High Tea at his California home on Nov. 30, an event produced by Chris Isaacson Presents.
- The gathering doubled as a benefit for The Van Dyke Endowment of the Arts and the in‑development Dick Van Dyke Museum.
- He said he and Disney bonded over a shared childlike spirit, describing them as being “emotionally 13” and drawn to children’s entertainment.
- Van Dyke noted they were on opposite sides of the political spectrum but said it never affected their friendship.
- He has previously recalled Disney calling to offer him Mary Poppins after hearing an interview, and he reflected that Disney died in 1966 at 65 from lung cancer.