Dick Van Dyke Receives the SAG Life Achievement Award

by Pam Larson, local board member

The highlight of the first Hawaii SAG Awards Viewing Party, to me, was Dick Van Dyke receiving the 49th SAG Life Achievement Award. Dick and I became friends on the 10-year run of his series, Diagnosis Murder. I’m often asked if Dick is as wonderful in real life as he appears on screen. My answer is yes! Dick is the most professional, talented, humble, funny and charming man I’ve known in this business. He loved work and always came prepared. No script or asking for a line, for him. He lit up our set with his smile and literally a dance in his step. Actor and song-and-dance man, he tap danced and sang on set with delight! He was a director’s dream. Whatever was asked of him, he did it with a smile.

Off the set, you just want him as a friend. Parties at his home were incredible; he performed with his singing quartet. Halloween was his favorite. His house/haunted mansion rivaled Disney World. Christmas and caroling were a must. Dick also passionately supports the Midnight Mission homeless shelter in Los Angeles without fanfare.

Recently, it was stated he was surprised he got the award. I’m not. Watching him in the spotlight at the SAG Awards flashing that smile, and just knowing a tap dance was tapping in his head as he received the Life Achievement Award, was priceless. Congratulations to Dick, my mentor, my friend, my inspiration.

This item was originally featured in the April 2013 local newsletter.