John Stamos Pens Emotional Tribute To Dick Van Dyke On His 100th Birthday

Hollywood doesn’t get many moments like this. As Dick Van Dyke reached the remarkable milestone of 100 years old, tributes poured in from across generations of entertainers who grew up inspired by his unmatched charm, physical comedy, and enduring joy. But one message, in particular, stood out for its intimacy and heart. Actor John Stamos marked the occasion not just by celebrating Van Dyke’s legendary career, but by honoring the personal impact the icon has had on his own life, as a mentor, inspiration, and living reminder that curiosity, kindness, and magic don’t fade with time.

The "Full House" star took to Instagram to celebrate Dick Van Dyke’s milestone 100th birthday, sharing a heartfelt tribute alongside a smiling photo of the two together that quickly struck an emotional chord with fans. “Happy Birthday to the one and only @official_dick_van_dyke,” Stamos wrote, reflecting on both the surreal and deeply personal moments he’s shared with the Hollywood icon.

Stamos noted how unreal it still feels that their stars now sit side by side on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a full-circle moment for an actor who grew up idolizing Van Dyke long before becoming his peer. Other days, he admitted, are spent thinking about how badly he wanted to make Van Dyke proud, especially while playing Albert in "Bye Bye Birdie" on Broadway, chasing even “a fraction” of Van Dyke’s joy, timing, and heart.

But beyond the accolades and career milestones, Stamos emphasized the humanity behind the legend. He described moments of simply “shooting the breeze,” laughing together, and being reminded that kindness and curiosity don’t fade with age. “You are grace, joy, optimism, and pure magic in human form,” Stamos wrote, thanking Van Dyke for setting the bar so high and for being “exactly who you are.”

Ahead of his milestone birthday, Van Dyke opened up to PEOPLE about what surprised him most about reaching 100 years old. “The fact that I made it,” the legendary entertainer said with his trademark humor and humility.

Despite the century mark, Van Dyke insists his outlook remains as buoyant as ever. “I feel really good for 100,” the "Mary Poppins" and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" star shared. “Sometimes I have more energy than others, but I never wake up in a bad mood.” That enduring optimism has become one of the defining traits of his public persona, earning him admiration well beyond his body of work.

To commemorate the milestone, Van Dyke recently released "100 Rules for Living to 100," a reflective and often playful look back at the highs, lows, and lessons of his extraordinary life and career. The celebration extends beyond the page as well. "Dick Van Dyke: A 100th Celebration" is being screened in select theaters, with showings scheduled throughout his birthday weekend.

In his hometown, the festivities are even bigger. The Van Dyke Endowment of the Arts has partnered with the Malibu Film Society to launch "VANDY DAYS!: Celebrating Dick Van Dyke’s 100th Birthday!," a two-week, citywide tribute honoring the beloved icon’s lasting impact on film, television, and the arts.

Over the course of his legendary career, Van Dyke has amassed one of Hollywood’s most impressive awards résumés. He has won four Primetime Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Grammy Award, cementing his rare status as a multi-hyphenate performer whose talents span television, film, theater, and music. In 1995, his impact on the medium was formally recognized when he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.

Even in his late 90s, Van Dyke continued to make history. Just last year, he became the oldest winner of a Daytime Emmy Award for a guest appearance on "Days of Our Lives," a moment that once again underscored his enduring relevance and charm.

Van Dyke, whose career spans more than seven decades, remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, known for classics like "The Dick Van Dyke Show," "Mary Poppins," "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," and "Bye Bye Birdie." Even at 100, his influence continues to ripple across generations of performers, many of whom, like Stamos, credit him as both an inspiration and a standard to aspire to.

As fans flooded the comments with birthday wishes and memories, Stamos’ tribute stood out as a reminder that behind Hollywood history are real relationships built on admiration, mentorship, and genuine affection. At 100 years old, Dick Van Dyke isn’t just being celebrated for what he’s done, but for who he’s been to those lucky enough to know him.