Dick Van Dyke wins Daytime Emmy at 98, becomes oldest recipient in history

Dick Van Dyke: 'Exercise is my secret weapon,' after winning a Daytime Emmy at 98.

Dick Van Dyke has officially become the oldest actor to win a Daytime Emmy Award, clinching the trophy at the age of 98. 

The iconic entertainer was awarded for his guest performance as Mystery Man/Timothy Robicheaux on the popular soap opera Days of Our Lives. 

Speaking to ET's Deidre Behar before his win, Van Dyke expressed surprise at his historic nomination, "Am I really the oldest? I didn't know I was the oldest," he shared.

With a career spanning nearly seven decades, Van Dyke has delighted audiences in classics like The Dick Van Dyke Show, Mary Poppins, and Diagnosis Murder. 

Despite his age, he has no plans to slow down, attributing his longevity to staying active. 

"Yes, I do. For being this long-lived, I really do," Van Dyke remarked about hitting the gym three times a week. "And I recommend it to everybody. That's my secret weapon."

The Emmy Awards ceremony held at the Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles was a momentous occasion for Van Dyke, who received a roaring ovation as he took the stage to accept his award. "I don't believe this. I feel like a spy from nighttime television," he joked. 

He continued to reflect on his longevity with a mix of humor and gratitude, "I have been playing old men all my life. If I had known I would live this long I would have taken care of myself."

Van Dyke also acknowledged the warm reception he received from the cast of Days of Our Lives, saying, "You guys treated me so nicely. I had such a wonderful time." 

His enduring enthusiasm for acting was evident as he described his career not as work but as play, "It isn't work, it's play. Actors are so lucky. I've had such a good time."

As he revels in his Emmy win, Van Dyke also eyes another potential milestone—achieving EGOT status, with only an Oscar eluding him. 

"Yeah! Give me a shot at it," he enthusiastically stated, hoping for an opportunity to win the prestigious award in his lifetime and not posthumously.

The 51st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will air on CBS and Paramount+.