In a true testament to the principle that it’s never too late to try something new, beloved actor Dick Van Dyke has taken the internet by storm and inspired a few people along the way with a video showcasing his new ukulele skills.
The video shared on his Instagram, captures the actor’s determination as he strums away on the ukulele during a recent lesson, proving that age is truly just a number when it comes to pursuing passions and embracing new experiences.
“My first ukulele lesson with @getstartedplayingukulele. It’s never too late to start something new,” he wrote alongside the video.
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Van Dyke was quickly inundated with praise from his legion of adoring fans for his latest musical endeavour, many revealing the 97-year-old has inspired them to pursue their own passions later in life.
“Amen! I started tap dancing at age 60. I’ll never win any awards for it, but I’m having fun,” one fan wrote.
“Love that you’re still trying new things! A lesson in how to stay young.”
“At almost 53, I feel like I’m too old to take piano lessons. Seeing you try this, encourages me. You continue to bring joy into my life. Thank you,” another commented.
“You sir are such a legend. So inspiring. God bless you.”
“I love my ukelele and am still trying to teach myself. It is relaxing and fun. Enjoy!”
“Dick is a lifetime learner. He continues to inspire all of us!”
“This post made my day! You are an inspiration and class act! Hugs to you!”
As he forges ahead with his latest endeavour, Van Dyke continues to defy the conventional boundaries of age, showcasing an unwavering spirit and ensuring he remains the picture of health and longevity well into old age.
In a recent interview, Van Dyke attributed his longevity to his adoring wife. He tied the knot with make-up artist Arlene Silver in 2012.
Speaking with Yahoo, the Mary Poppins star was asked for the secret to his “energy and joy”.
“Genes, I guess, for one thing. Having a beautiful young wife half my age to take care of me — that works!” Van Dyke said.
He also revealed the other element to keep energetic and fit with age.
“I still go to the gym three days a week and work out. And I advise everybody to do that because that’s what ages people — it’s just a stiffening up and not exercising their muscles and their lungs,” he said.
“Exercise is the answer.”
Van Dyke gave the public a sneak peek into his exercise routine during a recent appearance on CBS This Morning which he credited with helping him stay active in addition to ageing well.
“I’m 95, and a lot of my friends won’t do these,” Van Dyke told viewers, as he showed off his workout routine.
“So all you old guys out there, listen to me, I’m telling you, you can keep going for a long [time].
“George Burns made it, and I’m gonna do it too.”