Dick Van Dyke Is Glad He 'Wouldn't Be Around To Experience' Donald Trump's Presidency
By Afouda Bamidele on November 13, 2024 at 10:30 AM EST
Updated on November 13, 2024 at 10:35 AM EST
Dick Van Dyke is not holding back when it comes to his thoughts on Donald Trump's presidency.
The Hollywood icon was seen out and about, making it clear that he is relieved he "won't be around to experience" a Trump-led America.
Van Dyke's blunt comment adds to his history of political advocacy and outspoken views, including his endorsement of Kamala Harris for president earlier this month.
Dick Van Dyke Shares Blunt Take On Donald Trump's Win
Accompanied by his wife, Arlene Silver, Van Dyke was asked by reporters about his thoughts on the recent US election. After expressing hope for a bright future for America, the actor did not mince words when asked whether he thought Trump was "capable of making America great again."
With a quick, wry smile, he replied that he would rather not live to see it. "Fortunately, I won't be around to experience the four years," he stated firmly.
According to Daily Mail, his endorsement of Kamala Harris did not stop Trump from staging what is being called "the greatest political comeback of all time" as the former president returned to the White House.
Trump's win reportedly marks the first non-consecutive term in over 130 years.
The 'Mary Poppins' Star Channels Powerful MLK Speech To Back Kamala Harris
VOTE!!! @KamalaHarris @VP @KamalaHQ https://t.co/fHZhHLKLm3
— Dick Van Dyke (@iammrvandy) November 4, 2024
Van Dyke has been vocal in his political views over the years, even endorsing Kamala Harris earlier in the election with a stirring homage to his civil rights past.
The 98-year-old read a powerful speech he delivered alongside Martin Luther King Jr. in 1964, originally penned by "Twilight Zone" creator Rod Serling.
Wearing his reading glasses, Van Dyke emphasized that "hatred is not the norm," calling prejudice a "cancer of the soul" that has plagued humanity for years. Yet, he insisted, hope endures as long as there's "one voice left to say 'welcome' to a stranger" and "one hand outstretched to say 'enter and share.'"
Channeling Serling's poignant words, the TV legend warned that inequality, while deeply rooted, is neither "necessary" nor unbeatable. His message celebrated America's enduring spirit of decency and the potential for unity despite challenges.
Van Dyke Joined Hollywood Stars In Election Support
The Vice President is not the only politician he has thrown his support behind. According to Deadline, Van Dyke's endorsement follows his previous backing of Bernie Sanders in the 2020 primary.
He also backed Joe Biden in this year's election until the President withdrew from the race. Van Dyke is also not the only Hollywood figure voicing support for Harris.
The outlet reported that Richard Gere appeared in a video with Harris's Pennsylvania campaign, while Arnold Schwarzenegger endorsed her through his own social media.
With his public backing, Van Dyke joined a number of influential voices who encouraged Americans to vote.
The Actor Kept Fit For His 98th Birthday
This year, Van Dyke's birthday takes on a different tone, especially in light of his recent comments about not wanting to be around for a Trump presidency.
Looking back, the TV personality's 98th birthday was spent with a healthy, energetic approach, as he was spotted heading to the gym alongside his wife.
As The Blast reported, the legendary actor did not hold back on his distaste for gym sessions, admitting with a grin, "I hate going to the gym. She makes me go to the gym," gesturing to Silver with a laugh.
Van Dyke, dressed in a cozy gray sweater and blue sweatpants, may not have been thrilled about working out, but he was determined to stay active even as he approached the century mark.
Dick Van Dyke Made Suprise Appearance On 'The Masked Singer'
Despite his grumbling, it seems the gym paid off for Van Dyke, as he stunned the world by revealing he was "The Gnome" on season 9 of "The Masked Singer."
The father-of-four even delighted fans with a spirited rendition of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," complete with dance moves, proving he still had his iconic charm and energy well into his 90s.
After his unmasking, judge Nicole Scherzinger was moved to tears, praising him as a lifelong inspiration, saying, "I love you so much. We love you. The whole world loves you so much." Fellow judge Ken Jeong also honored Van Dyke, calling him a comedic legend.
Dick Van Dyke seems to have his mind made up about Donald Trump!