True, funnily enough, he looks a bit older due to his grey hair, which, as we now know, is not an indication of a shorter life. :) Dick is in fine form, and I can see him crossing 100 with no sweat!
@babblingalong7689I mean, I m "only" 46, and just pointed out to a friend that her 8 year old kid is now roughly the same age as when she, my friend was telling how much she loved a particular movie (that I just randomly sent her a clip of, earlier this afternoon). So when we are this guy's age, we'll have spoken 90+ years ago 😂
Now, the greatest of all time, my favorite ever- Dick Van Dyke- is 4 months into his 99th year and still going strong- happily married to a woman 47 years younger- still performing. Alcohol did nothing to hurt his physical health. I hope he lives forever.
It was his 99th year alive prior to his 99th birthday. He's now in his 100th year. When you were born, you were 0 years old, and began your 1st year at birth, and were 1 year old 12 months later, and were 1 year old for the next 12 months after your 1st birthday, but you started your 2nd year day after your 1st birthday
I love how the audience isn’t applauding or sighing at every line.. you actually can watch a show and derive your own emotions without a studio audience cue
Wow, I didn't realize he was still alive. He's 97 now (2023). I guess that is a testament to the human body's ability to repair itself if given a chance.
longevity and resilience to addictions like alcohol and drugs is all genetical. like all these body builders you see it isn't just lifting weights and eating lots of protein, it's also genes.
@@coldwinter5710 Yes, it was, and still is, because not all alcoholics recover. My recovery began in 1981 and I am 74, and Dick Van Dyke living to 99 now inspires me. He's attracting a lot of attention not only because of his age but because of his vibrant liveliness. I hope that his being a recovered alcoholic and that excellent film he made in 1972 called "The Morning After" with his dramatic acting being as excellent as his comedy will become more widely known and seen so that he will be appreciated even more and will inspire alcoholic recovery. ✨
You’re so right I agree. Things like this help people and he did that in 74. It’s an honest, pride aside acknowledgement to something about him, in his life, that was completely destroying his life. I think that vulnerability speaks to people. Always a charming entertainer but what a great way to use his platform!
I’ll be forever grateful for his disclosing his alcoholism. He helped me so much to accept my own disease. If Dick VanDyke is an alcoholic it’s not disgraceful for a woman to accept it in herself. Thanks Dick.
Quit booze at 30, walked off roof of 4 story building while blacked out. Heart stopped in ambulance, came back after 2 mins, spent year in hospital. Broke both femurs, both ankles, 12 ribs, left arm, fractured skull. 73 now, 43 yrs no booze.
Good for you, Victor, and congratulations. I didn't have near the experience you did, but I had my own issues. At 31 years old on 6/23/1989 I made the decision "that was it." I rolled my last joint, drank the beers in the fridge, and watched the movie, "Clean and Sober." Went to my bathroom, looked in the mirror and had a tearful talk with myself. I was still able to have a successful IT sales career, despite the "stigma" of not going out partying with friends and clients. Now I'm over 62 and never, ever missed it for a single minute. I hope people realize they may have a problem before they have to go through hitting "rock bottom" or, worse, hurting someone else and ruining their lives. Good on you, brother.
A fantastic speaker..., He could have been a very effective political leader, statesman, military officer, attorney, ambassador, councilor, professor, he tried and tried to join the Army Air Force during ww2, but was deemed "too skinny" ...but finally accepted him as an Army radio announcer becaausee of his voice....he then was transferred to Army Speccial services to entertain trooopps.... I am glad he never became a pilot, and was taken into entertainment !!
John Quinn congratulations🎉 having a father and x husband who drank in excess I wish I had found the movie Food Matters and the Website Doctoryourself.com Niacin and Niacinamide would have helped them in there dry drunks decades of pain ...
He took a HUGE heroic risk labeling himself alcoholic back then, before getting sober was cool. And how candid and open. Back then, people winced. Now he he's a trailblazer. He walked the perfect line between outing himself but not the program of AA.
How he presented the information spoke to a lot of people, and I think that was the key to him not endangering his image by coming out. The federal agency to research alcohol abuse (NIAA) was founded in 1970, so I think that there was definitely at least some awareness that this was a public health crisis by then, but surely Dick did a much better job persuading people to take it seriously than the government could have.
I've been sober since 1/1/2019. I was a nurse for 30 yrs. Passed out woke up 6 wks later disabled. I wasn't shocked at all. I'm staying sober. Loved this show. Very cool
I appreciate your comment as a nurse who work for 30 years also and now it's dealing with football and alcoholism and trying to get into treatment not football sorry full-blown alcoholism and trying to get into treatment my daughter hasn't talked to me and almost a year because of my drinking now she's visiting here and I'm not seeing her because she will not see me until I go into treatment and I'm trying to go into treatment but relying on my husband to well your insurance changed and our insurance changed anyway but then I found out I have some type of problem that may be cancer and I can't even call them because I'm so dealing with the alcoholism and trying to get the treatment I really am I really do want to go like today or wanted to go like a week ago I've been wanting to go for a week but he won't well anyway he is supposedly is he's talking to somebody about me being in a 28-day program and my insurance only pays 8 days so we're trying to get the money togetherhe's trying to work it out but meanwhile my heart is breaking because I just found out about this cancer thing I don't even know exactly what they're going to say I mean they just sent me a certified letter saying that I have to call the GYN office you know because there's something really wrong but anyway as a nurse who worked for 30 years you know just appreciated your comment so sorry to take it for time thank you have a good night and Happy Thanksgiving
How come we stopped being like this? A pure adult conversation dealing with addictive substances, mental issues in a clean, clear and civil manner. What happened?
Greed is what happened. People love negative and conflict. It's interesting and it makes the viewer feel superior. It's like mind candy and makes more money, so they cater to the lowest common denominator. That's why the Bible says the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.
We've been dumbed down and fed garbage labeled entertainment. It's now acceptable for an adult to behave like and share interests with teenage dropouts.
The failed War on Drugs. You can blame Reagan for the stigma that addicts faced after that. Ever since then, they are seen as criminals instead of people who need help. 50 years later and many people, even those who claim to be Christian, spit on the idea of helping addicts.
I like that the interview is 20 minutes long so ideas can actually be explored a little. The modern interviews are usually well under 5 minutes and are just a boring pre-approved anecdote most of the time.
Ardie Naimi We still have interviews like this, listen to a podcast like Joe Rogan, that's the modern version of a real talk show. No one listens to TV crap anymore.
it needs to be said that it is incredible that Dick Van Dyke could talk about his own addiction with this much candor, in that era , on national television. And that Dick Cavett managed the conversation so professionally - again - in that time period.
It's inspiring to see men being this honest, vulnerable and intelligent at this time. Incredible intelligence and self-realization. Really grateful to DVD for putting himself out there like this, and in awe of DC for his career of brilliant generosity.
I have to give credit where it’s deserved: Cavett was an exceptional interviewer. He was able to modify his style depending on the interviewee. It’s what made his show highly successful. Actually, watching this is embarrassing for today’s talk shows by comparison.
My father was a raging alcoholic I saw things from the age of three or four that most adults couldn't handle ,I too became an alcoholic even though I rember praying that I would never drink,I'm 62 now and have not had a drink in decades,my childhood still haunts me.
This is one of the best talks about alcoholism I have ever heard. Thank you! I've been sober since 10-27-17, and it continues to be the best decision I've ever made!
Just found out today that he is a recovering alcoholic! I just love the guy. So I came across this interview and I have no idea when it was filmed but it’s just as accurate today. Sober since 11/13/20 here!
@@sakeboersma if youre a real alcoholic the idea of a relapse is deadly serious, not to be spoken of lightly. I suspect youve never felt the real pain alcoholism can cause and therefore a relapse doesnt seem significant, over time if you keep on youll see what i mean.
hah thats funny, another funny thing is he is related to my husband thru George Soule from the Mayflower, they have the same DNA, also does Richard Gere....Dick is gorgeous and reminds me of my brother David who is tall too, Dick's voice is lovely and he is quick, another funny thing is my husbands girlfriend in the 70's was a waitress, she worked at a bar where Dick and other famous movie stars would frequent, in Scottsdale, AZ, Dick and many other famous men would pinch the waitresses butts, they were used to it and got big tips, she said Dick did this a lot, and I bet he was drunk at the time maybe does not remember but what do I know right...she told my husband this, so there is your proof...
Cavett was at his best here. Compassionate but not pitiful, asking direct questions without being patronizing or judgmental. Beautiful little conversation piece, made all the more better by Van Dyke's acceptance and openness about his disease.
Agreed, Cavet’s interviewing technique was spot on. Intelligent and conversational style. Dick Van Dyke has integrity and is open and honest. Puts the current interviewers to shame.
Dick Van Dyke was always a class act. One of the great icons of the 1960s. He was to TV what Clark Gable was to movies. Strikingly handsome with that beard!
You were a nicer person when you were drunk! Now you're a pain in the ass cleaning up the house and complaining about cobwebs in the corners and behind the TV set and dog hairs on the sofa! Ha! You won't be long getting tired of constantly cleaning up the house and brushing up the back yard and cutting the lawn! At least with having a belly full of booze the house could be like the town dump and you'd be lying on the floor happily snoring your head off with bubbles of whiskey coming down your nose! 22 days! For Gods sake have pity on your poor family and go back on the sauce! At least when you were on the floor snoring and half buried under last weeks newspapers, you were not bothering anyone! Now your a pain in the ass...get out there, get a few bottles and give your family a little peace and quiet!
@@gabbana1993 When I was commenting about you I was of course talking about myself and I was just about reaching the end of a bottle of whiskey. I speak in all honesty when I say I wish you the best of luck in what might not be a life or death battle, but is certainly a chance of a better life. It's a bit late for me since the woman I married was a non drinking battle axe, now she's a wine drinking bottle axe.! She's a Catholic who says that if wine is good enough for the Pope it's good enough for her! So she spends a lot of time in church lately, and she's inclined to sway a little when she comes home! No shortage of wine in the church so I'm told, so she might run off with the priest poor man, in any case my friend I'm off to lie on the floor under last weeks newspapers but I send you my genuine best wishes!
Still alive at 97 what an amazing story of recovery this man is. He’s so inspiring to me as an alcoholic. I used to think it helped. Now I feel so isolated and drink only by myself. It’s astonishingly destructive and no doubt the worst drug there is
@@SofaKingShit Absolutely two thumbs up on that statement. For those who have had to deal with the withdrawal effects from benzodiazepines.....any thing else is a walk in the park. Best wishes to you.
I've met a lot of big name actors, and rockstars and I have to say, Dick Van Dyke is my absolute favorite. Unbelievably humble, kind, funny, open and engaging. A REAL star.
I am addicted to opioids and just replaced the word alcohol with pills and listened to this interview 2 or 3 times. I mean how great was Dick Cavett. If it was jimmy Kimmel, or jimmy falon, or james corden everything would of been laughing or a joke or interrupting the poor guy. What a classy interview guys. Thank you
I'm addicted to sugar (chocolate, ice cream, cakes .....) and have to say there are very strong parallels with what Dick says about his addiction to alcohol.
@@sleeves1235 So true, but there's a lot of podcasts nowadays that are just as interesting as Dick Cavett's interviews were...you just have to look around. Good luck man. Get all the help you can, and just do your best to beat the demon. I've struggled with addiction myself, and I'm seeing some things in this interview to be concerned about alcohol-wise. The main thing I think is to find a way to give yourself a chance to compare what life is like with the drug vs. without it. I beat smoking that way--I forced myself to stay with the program even though I knew I felt better without the cigarettes. In the end, I was counting the days until I could stop smoking again--I was so glad to be rid of those things, and I still am.
Cavette was likable and good commentator. He didn't attack his guest or put them down. He asked intelligent questions and let his guests answer the question without interrupting or talking over them.
I’ve never seen Dick interviewed before, he is incredibly self aware and articulate. Great interview. I miss these long, well researched and in depth interviews. Thanks for posting.
No it's fraudulent. The demon of alchoholism and addiction is spiritual, supernatural portal for possession. This guy is saying it's all physical, and redirecting from the truth. Jesus cures these things, aa defines alchoholism as a spiritual problem also btw, that's the main reason for its success.
@@trentsc4929 So if a faithful individual isn't cured through faith alone, your supposition that you will present in analysis of their continued addiction will of course be that they are clearly not faithful enough, that there is a deep flaw in their character preventing them from being faithful enough to be cured by Jesus, rather than acknowledging the possibility that you are wrong or that you are a liar who is looking to invalidate the statements of those who have found medical treatment successfully, to deprecate them and accuse them of fraud in the interest of elevating your own hit-job ministry. Most people here aren't going to have much difficulty, looking between your statement and his, in determining who is engaging in fraudulent suppositions. He didn't invalidate the statements of those stating that they were cured by their faith, yet you felt the need to try and invalidate those who acknowledge a physiological cause in which their addiction is rooted. In favor of one which makes the faithful infallible to addiction and if which addiction is proof of faithlessness, of course. Also, AA fails somewhere around 95-97% of the people who enter into it, and attributes that failure of all but about the 3% of people entering into their program to character flaws/lack of faith rhetoric, rather than taking responsibility for a flawed praxis or lack of substantive alternative treatment practices, just as you're about to do. Something else which you were poised to try and lie about. Condemning those 97% to continued disease and suffering for the sake of attempting to advance your personal ministry through your mortal and lightly educated ley interpretation of scripture at the full expense of the sick and the vulnerable is a shameful and treacherous, blasphemous obscenity.
Craig Ferguson did a really good monologue about his alcoholism on his old late night show that started off as a defense of Brittney Spears when she was having a hard go of things; definitely worth a listen!
I love him. Always so humble and honest. His wife describes him as, "the most perfect human being, I've never met anyone so happy, so genuine, so amazing." Wishing him continued good health. ❤
What a FANTASTIC explanation of alcoholism, heavy drinking and social drinking....I was really struggling tonight wanting to drink to numb some emotional pain from my sibling's recent death. In fact, I have two bottles of unopened wine sitting on my kitchen counter. I even got a favorite glass rinsed & ready for the pour, but hesitated long enough to watch this interview and before I got half way in, the craving vanished. You see, I've been sober for 14 months and LOVE being sober. I was SO angry today and so very angry today, I just wanted to drink it away and numb my pain, but really there is not enough wine in the world to numb me out and it will NOT take it away, just delay it. BUT it was THIS interview....I always loved Dick Van Dyck as an actor, but now admire him as a man who has a problem that he is successfully dealing with and helping the rest of us to deal with ours. Thank you Thank you Thank you for this whoever put it on here. It has stopped me from a big regret tomorrow.
Very proud 👏 of you. The old adage the "Straight and narrow" is one of the most powerful things to ponder and understand that its courage that keeps one on that golden path. It will be two years July 11th for me. Keep strong!
It's amazing how refreshing these old interviews are compared to the noisy, fast paced, overly fragmented talk shows you get today. Television bosses now think that viewers don't have the attention span to deal with two people just having an uninterrupted conversation for this length of time. They would see this as slow and boring. But that's just not true. It's fascinating, honest, engaging, eloquent, thoughtful and just wonderful.
Amazing! That’s about the same amount of time my (step)dad was sober until the day he passed away. What a blessing he was to my family. Congratulations on your sobriety! 😊
@@suescherdel6278 The joke is that sober alkies are the only people in the world who expect a pat on the back for doing themselves a favor. LOL I am happy that your stepdad was able to get better and make your life better. That's the program. ;o)
a very strong, sensitive discussion about a terrible disease. The disease model of alcoholism was not as widely accepted as it is now. But there is still stigma and much ignorance around the subject. This, as you say, is a beautiful and honest exploration of it.
now its needed more than ever. celebs flaunt mental illness likes its the latest trend, but i cant remember a celebrity ever being this open about such a personal topic
I'm 4 months sober and I relate to everything Dick said in this video! I'm not a social drinker, I drink alone and I drink just so I can feel better. It is a constant battle but it helps to know you are not alone.
50 years ago this aired, about 30 years before I was even born. I’m 20 and a mentally unstable man. Seeing something as raw as this from a time I thought was way more civilized just adds to my disappointment of current society, but also hope of being able to still have these serious moments. I’ve never really struggled with drinking, although I’ve had my moments, but this eloquence, honesty and integrity of this interview is astonishing. Thank you for blessing my often muddled feed with a pure clip as this one.
I saw this before the latest Mary Poppins and when he featured at the end... I just cried and cried... because we know what he has been through. If I live to 94+ I’ll be so surprised
This is amazing. I think Dick Van Dyke convinced me I can quit alcohol and still be a total badass and then some. I’m definitely an alcoholic and he made me understand why. He gave me the courage to know it’s perfectly fine to be sober. This man put forth so much class, wisdom, eloquence, knowledge and understanding it’s unbelievable. This is gold right here for anyone who may have an issue, which I do. Me and Van Dyke actually share the same birthday :) Bless you all
I have never had a problem with alcohol because I realised it was a bad drug for me. So I don't do it. Not saying I would have been an alcoholic, but as soon as you think it is the answer to something you have lost. It isn't the answer. How could it be?
I have just balled my eyes out at this someone I adore & idolise has been where I am now, im 30yrs and I'm checking into detox again and for the 3rd time I am determined I totally relate to every word he's said I also have cut off all the user friends that just want to party! Thanks Mr Van Dyke for your openess and honesty. ❤ from UK
I'm someone who found alcohol to be the "social lubricant" they say it is. I was terribly shy, until college. Alcohol turned that corner, and I had great experiences. Life opened up. Then, as alcohol took its toll, it became a burden. It's a toxin. It's a horrible, murderous thing. Alcohol is the saddest thing shy people ever discovered. It is death.
I’ve never seen Mr. Van Dyke in an interview before. What a classy, intelligent, articulate man. I’m glad that he got over his addiction. And Mr. Cavett did another great job as interviewer. Wonderful, just wonderful.
@@zapkvr Alcoholism is when the body is addicted to alcohol. That's why drunks have the shakes until they have their next drink. It's also why they have delirious tremors (aka the DT's...) and the shakes when they begin the process of stopping drinking.
This is the most succinct explanation of alcoholism I've ever heard. I am recovered, but the only reason I clicked on this was because I've loved Dick Van Dyke for over a quarter century and never heard his take on this subject. Almost everything he said was my exact experience. Is it possible to love him more?
Personally I can’t stand him and think he’s just average as an interviewer. He got great guests though and who were very interesting, so this helped him a lot.
This show was in what, the mid-70’s? Talking of addiction as being a disease back then way ahead of its time. Many people to this day don’t believe that’s the case, whether it’s booze, or opioids, or even pot. Dick was just one of a kind. Still going at 98, such a wonderful man, and the frank openness about his own battle has hopefully gotten a lot of people the help they truly needed - some even commenting here on this clip. Continued strength to you all.
This was SO heavy, and UNHEARD OF IN DISCUSSIONS, particularly publicly at the time. WOW! Kudos to Dick for bringing this to America, almost 50 years ago! P.S. Dick looks almost the same on this show as he does in 2022! Amazing! Thank you again for being such trailblazer!
frizzy red I totally agree... his questioning was sharp but respectful at the same time and he did ask a lot of questions that were interesting..... 2 fantastic entertainers
@Councilman Les Wynan today's talk show hosts are self important chumps who are trying to get their own misguided agendas across , and the laughs are few and far between.
I had no idea that Dick Van Dyke is such a thoughtful, well-spoken, gentlemanly person. If you should happen to read this, Mr. Van Dyke, just add me to the list of millions whose lives were made just a little bit better by you. And likewise to you, Mr. Cavett,. You gave us a certain high-quality access to many of the leading personalities of our times. Ali, Brando, Lennon, Burton, Rubenstein... just a few of your many interviews that informed my life. And now there's treasure that I'd missed, like Dick Van Dyke and Ian Mckellen -- and you. I didn't know then, but I know now, how much is accomplished by even a small act of goodness. It ripples onward forever. So thank you both.
Van Dyke is so eloquent and forthright about his illness. Cavett didn't shy away from the discussion, which probably had a significant impact on some viewers who shared the affliction. Without breaking the anonymity pledge, he laid it on the line. He had a fantastic life after achieving sobriety. An important dialogue for any time.
Many years ago I had the pleasure of assisting Dick Van Dyke at waht was then the Century Plaza Hotel with his checkout. He is the most gracious, lovely person that you can imagine. He waited in line patiently and smiled at me and made small talk. He is a true gentleman.
i'm 19 months sober from my alcohol addiction. Dick is a true hero for coming forward and also offering up such great insight, and to be honest a lot of it I already know but as an alcoholic you really need it reinforced to yourself on a daily basis believe it or not because the alcoholic thought process is constantly working against it's self. What can i say hearing this interview is a true blessing and is a reminder that if you're suffering from alcohol addiction you are not alone there is hope if you choose to embrace it.
The most eloquent discussion I have ever heard regarding alcohol addiction. Thank you Dick Van Dyke for being so honest, humble and open about your past addiction to alcohol.
Reading the comments from people who have overcome alcoholism is absolutely thrilling. I salute your strength of character, your stick-to-it-iveness, and your love of your selves and your families. While falling in may not be a failing, rising out is a triumph. Thank you for your stories.
Daxxon Jabiru - Yes, it was a time when rudeness was unacceptable. And civil discussion was “normal”. I’ve seen just how downhill our discourse has become from the 1950’s.
@@SteveMudflapMcGrew wasnt this when interracial marriage was still illegal and black people weren't given equal protection under the law? I mean to point out that it is easy to view the past in a certain lens by choosing one or two things. I think we are much more civilized now, and just like back then, the timeless conversations will be what last
Tmanaz480 Check out Joe Rogan Here on TH-cam. 3 hr conversations like this... Really more free flowing. Rohan doesn’t ask as many pointed questions. It just meanders and ends up in tons of interesting places.
What a wonderful interview! So happy to have stumbled across it. Words of wisdom from dear old Dick…I am 1 yr & 2 months sober and in recovery from this wretched disease of alcoholism. Anyone who is battling to get and stay sober, please don’t stop trying! It took me 5 yrs to finally put it down and if I can do it so can you ❤
Dick sounds so professional here he could be mistaken for an alcohol counselor himself. Very well spoken and educated. Congratulations on your sobriety.
Wow - this is truly astounding. Dick Van Dyke speaks so intelligently and calmly. Just a timeless piece that is just as helpful today as when it aired. Nothing of value like this on TV today.
Dick Van Dyke was one of my first crushes. He has remained a beacon of wholesomeness and talent and he's a comedic genius. I never knew he was an alcoholic, but he is even more dear. That he overcame and is still here. Thanks, this was good. 💗
Mine too. He's still tall, handsome and looking 20 years younger than his real age. Must be all the smiling and dancing and lovely personality that keeps him young.
@@cincin4515 Indeed! I heard him on a late night show and he said he eats an ice cream sundae every day, because as a kid he could never have ice cream and he loves it. That might be part of his longevity too. Quality of life! 😊
Dick was 49 in this video and it was 50 years ago. Now he is 99 this year. Happy Birthday Dick !!! 🥳🎉❤
True, funnily enough, he looks a bit older due to his grey hair, which, as we now know, is not an indication of a shorter life. :) Dick is in fine form, and I can see him crossing 100 with no sweat!
Turn 99
Years Old
Amazing man!!
99th like lol god bless ya Dick
Watch him in the video with Coldplay.
Both Van Dyke and Cavett are still with us as of December 4, 2024. God bless them both.
Incredible. Imagine being able to say 'Hey, remember us talking 50 years ago'.
Love listening to them both ❤️❤️❤️
Amazing
@babblingalong7689I mean, I m "only" 46, and just pointed out to a friend that her 8 year old kid is now roughly the same age as when she, my friend was telling how much she loved a particular movie (that I just randomly sent her a clip of, earlier this afternoon). So when we are this guy's age, we'll have spoken 90+ years ago 😂
Van Dyke supports child abuse.
My 11th year sober...went to see Mary Poppins recently "God Bless you Dick"...Pass it on! X
Now, the greatest of all time, my favorite ever- Dick Van Dyke- is 4 months into his 99th year and still going strong- happily married to a woman 47 years younger- still performing. Alcohol did nothing to hurt his physical health. I hope he lives forever.
His 99th birthday was this past Dec. 13th, so he's only four DAYS in.
It was his 99th year alive prior to his 99th birthday.
He's now in his 100th year.
When you were born, you were 0 years old, and began your 1st year at birth, and were 1 year old 12 months later, and were 1 year old for the next 12 months after your 1st birthday, but you started your 2nd year day after your 1st birthday
Alcohol abuse ALWAYS does damage to the body. If you quit "in time", your body can often repair this damage, as it obviously did in his case.
No one lives forever!!!! Grow up
45 years later and he is 93 now and still kicking... proof you can get over your addictions and recover and still live a full life
I work the nightshift at a Sydney Hospital. We watch Diagnosis Murder at 3am most mornings...DVD is awesome!!!
Damn, the grey hair made me think he was far older than 48
Andy Way good for him
but wut if the alcohol is what made him live longer
Alcoholics: 1
Normies: 0
Yes! Isn’t it wonderful! 😊❤️
42 years sober here. This talk saved my life. Everybody can change, remember that.
I love it awesome for you !!!
Wonderful!
Do you ever have a desire to drink or how long have you not wanted to?
@@anthonyo.460 You can do it, don't ever lose faith in yourself.
@@davidb9114 I smoke a cigar occasionally, maybe that's my substitute but because of my past, I have no desire to drink again.
I love how the audience isn’t applauding or sighing at every line.. you actually can watch a show and derive your own emotions without a studio audience cue
I noticed this - bak then - 70s - was a more thoughtful time?
Yes!
Amazing perception! XXX
Same. Then I imagine watching Bill Maher's show and cringe about the audience applause. Everything has to be so blatantly virtuous.
Wonderful and refreshing, isn't it?
Wow, I didn't realize he was still alive. He's 97 now (2023).
I guess that is a testament to the human body's ability to repair itself if given a chance.
Both of them are still alive. Wild
He's now 98 and can STILL dance a few steps.
longevity and resilience to addictions like alcohol and drugs is all genetical. like all these body builders you see it isn't just lifting weights and eating lots of protein, it's also genes.
Yeah you're right. Lifestyle does play a part, but it's largely down to genetics.
@@ayokay123yes. He will turn 99 in December 2024. He said he's praying he makes it. He's still a funny guy.
41 days sober. Longest I have been in 12 years. Such a wonderful feeling :) \o/
One day at a time! I hope you're still doing well!
Keep going!
Hope you’re still doing it. I’m on day 1 and never want to drink again.
Congratulations!
I hope you are still staying strong! Sending you love.
Amazing how candid this was for 1974. People didn’t talk this openly back then, especially on TV. He’s a hero for doing this
Thank you for pointing that out. I am an alcoholic who stopped drinking in 1981 and it still wasn't openly discussed. ☝️
💯! This was a VERY big deal at the time.
@@coldwinter5710
Yes, it was, and still is, because not all alcoholics recover. My recovery began in 1981 and I am 74, and Dick Van Dyke living to 99 now inspires me. He's attracting a lot of attention not only because of his age but because of his vibrant liveliness. I hope that his being a recovered alcoholic and that excellent film he made in 1972 called "The Morning After" with his dramatic acting being as excellent as his comedy will become more widely known and seen so that he will be appreciated even more and will inspire alcoholic recovery. ✨
You’re so right I agree. Things like this help people and he did that in 74. It’s an honest, pride aside acknowledgement to something about him, in his life, that was completely destroying his life. I think that vulnerability speaks to people.
Always a charming entertainer but what a great way to use his platform!
Still a recovering alcoholic at 99, beautiful man and message ❤
Both of these lads still kicking about in 2024, absolutely fantastic, 50 years later.
This was the interview that got me sober. It's been almost three years now without a drop.
Awesome!!!!
❤🙏🏼
Very encouraged by your sobriety. Still, one day at a time.
He was drunk while preaching this whole thing to us! My dad had those same eyes.
Much respect.
I’ll be forever grateful for his disclosing his alcoholism. He helped me so much to accept my own disease. If Dick VanDyke is an alcoholic it’s not disgraceful for a woman to accept it in herself. Thanks Dick.
Quit booze at 30, walked off roof of 4 story building while blacked out. Heart stopped in ambulance, came back after 2 mins, spent year in hospital. Broke both femurs, both ankles, 12 ribs, left arm, fractured skull. 73 now, 43 yrs no booze.
Good for you, Victor, and congratulations. I didn't have near the experience you did, but I had my own issues. At 31 years old on 6/23/1989 I made the decision "that was it." I rolled my last joint, drank the beers in the fridge, and watched the movie, "Clean and Sober." Went to my bathroom, looked in the mirror and had a tearful talk with myself. I was still able to have a successful IT sales career, despite the "stigma" of not going out partying with friends and clients. Now I'm over 62 and never, ever missed it for a single minute. I hope people realize they may have a problem before they have to go through hitting "rock bottom" or, worse, hurting someone else and ruining their lives. Good on you, brother.
@@SurfsideRick it's worth it. Look ahead, past don't matter. I don't miss a minute of it either.
Your lucky you survived that fall and got a second chance!
Oh My Word. God Bless.
Whoa. That's crazy!
I always admired the way Dick communicates, good voice, good confidence, very alert, wise, funny, smiling. America's treasure.
A fantastic speaker..., He could have been a very effective political leader, statesman, military officer, attorney, ambassador, councilor, professor, he tried and tried to join the Army Air Force during ww2, but was deemed "too skinny" ...but finally accepted him as an Army radio announcer becaausee of his voice....he then was transferred to Army Speccial services to entertain trooopps.... I am glad he never became a pilot, and was taken into entertainment !!
@@TANTRUMGASM All true. I watch him to learn how to better engage with people.
@@TANTRUMGASMI agree. I am glad he did not become a pilot because he might not have survived the war otherwise. What a loss that would have been.
Our first crush as kids: him and Rod Sterling
@@michellelekas211 It's kind of weird to have a crush on Rod Serling. it's like entering the Twilight Zone...
God willing I'll celebrate 21 years of sobriety on the 4th of July. Thanks for blazing the trail, Mr. Van Dyke!
Congratulations! No small feat, keep up the good work!
John Quinn well done lad ..
Congrats ! 21 years for me on Sept 14
Congrats!!!!
John Quinn congratulations🎉 having a father and x husband who drank in excess I wish I had found the movie Food Matters and the Website Doctoryourself.com Niacin and Niacinamide would have helped them in there dry drunks decades of pain ...
I'll be 3 years sober in Feb 2020. Best decision of my entire life.
Keep going mate, you can do it.
Keep going, you've done brilliantly and you should be very proud. Wishing you all the best and continued success.
Me too! February 2nd is my three year anniversary
Live in the problem, or live in the solution. Sobriety is as simple as that! Best wishes to you!
Congrats on three years!
He took a HUGE heroic risk labeling himself alcoholic back then, before getting sober was cool. And how candid and open. Back then, people winced. Now he he's a trailblazer. He walked the perfect line between outing himself but not the program of AA.
Very well said. x
@mccloysong oh yeah, good observation, I didn’t notice that
Bull.
@@nstix2009xitsn I take it you got sober in the early 70s, then.
How he presented the information spoke to a lot of people, and I think that was the key to him not endangering his image by coming out. The federal agency to research alcohol abuse (NIAA) was founded in 1970, so I think that there was definitely at least some awareness that this was a public health crisis by then, but surely Dick did a much better job persuading people to take it seriously than the government could have.
I've been sober since 1/1/2019. I was a nurse for 30 yrs. Passed out woke up 6 wks later disabled. I wasn't shocked at all. I'm staying sober. Loved this show. Very cool
I appreciate your comment as a nurse who work for 30 years also and now it's dealing with football and alcoholism and trying to get into treatment not football sorry full-blown alcoholism and trying to get into treatment my daughter hasn't talked to me and almost a year because of my drinking now she's visiting here and I'm not seeing her because she will not see me until I go into treatment and I'm trying to go into treatment but relying on my husband to well your insurance changed and our insurance changed anyway but then I found out I have some type of problem that may be cancer and I can't even call them because I'm so dealing with the alcoholism and trying to get the treatment I really am I really do want to go like today or wanted to go like a week ago I've been wanting to go for a week but he won't well anyway he is supposedly is he's talking to somebody about me being in a 28-day program and my insurance only pays 8 days so we're trying to get the money togetherhe's trying to work it out but meanwhile my heart is breaking because I just found out about this cancer thing I don't even know exactly what they're going to say I mean they just sent me a certified letter saying that I have to call the GYN office you know because there's something really wrong but anyway as a nurse who worked for 30 years you know just appreciated your comment so sorry to take it for time thank you have a good night and Happy Thanksgiving
@@liscel3556 Football????!!!! Dafuq??? 😳
How come we stopped being like this?
A pure adult conversation dealing with addictive substances, mental issues in a clean, clear and civil manner.
What happened?
Extended childhood in affluent cultures. USA is #1.
Social programming
Greed is what happened. People love negative and conflict. It's interesting and it makes the viewer feel superior. It's like mind candy and makes more money, so they cater to the lowest common denominator. That's why the Bible says the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.
We've been dumbed down and fed garbage labeled entertainment. It's now acceptable for an adult to behave like and share interests with teenage dropouts.
The failed War on Drugs. You can blame Reagan for the stigma that addicts faced after that. Ever since then, they are seen as criminals instead of people who need help. 50 years later and many people, even those who claim to be Christian, spit on the idea of helping addicts.
Van Dyke was decades before his time. He was eloquent and heroic in this interview.
Wrong, the guy was a star in "his time".
@@kelleyhice And made an a typical movie about alcohol addiction, where he showed his not funny side. That was a big risk.
This was so, so brave of him, really admirable!
But not completely accurate...
@@kennethgarcia25 As far as I can tell, everything here was at least believed to be accurate at that time...is there something you find concerning?
Cavett's show was a real talk show. People actually talked about interesting stuff.
i know. it's amazing how watered down things have become.
I like that the interview is 20 minutes long so ideas can actually be explored a little. The modern interviews are usually well under 5 minutes and are just a boring pre-approved anecdote most of the time.
Yes, like the Parkinson show in England. Little to no pandering to the audience.
@Boco Corwin Oh for sure he's a highlight guest on late shows but he's the exception not the Norm.
Ardie Naimi We still have interviews like this, listen to a podcast like Joe Rogan, that's the modern version of a real talk show. No one listens to TV crap anymore.
Dick Van Dyke is an absolutely amazing human being, and a National Treasure. ❤
I couldn't agree more!
I just wrote basically the same comment
it needs to be said that it is incredible that Dick Van Dyke could talk about his own addiction with this much candor, in that era , on national television. And that Dick Cavett managed the conversation so professionally - again - in that time period.
It's inspiring to see men being this honest, vulnerable and intelligent at this time. Incredible intelligence and self-realization. Really grateful to DVD for putting himself out there like this, and in awe of DC for his career of brilliant generosity.
It’s one brilliant interview
Excellant interview good watching this eye opener
Loved dick cavett
Dick Cavett suffered from depression for many years so he has a clue.
He’s talking so well - calmly and non-boastfully - just honestly. He’s a good conversationalist. Dick Cavett is very natural also.
I have to give credit where it’s deserved: Cavett was an exceptional interviewer. He was able to modify his style depending on the interviewee. It’s what made his show highly successful. Actually, watching this is embarrassing for today’s talk shows by comparison.
My father was a raging alcoholic I saw things from the age of three or four that most adults couldn't handle ,I too became an alcoholic even though I rember praying that I would never drink,I'm 62 now and have not had a drink in decades,my childhood still haunts me.
Love them. Such class acts
This is one of the best talks about alcoholism I have ever heard. Thank you! I've been sober since 10-27-17, and it continues to be the best decision I've ever made!
I’m trying and have relaps now and then… it’s a struggle! But Van Dyke is a focus for me! I will succeed! Just like you!!
Just found out today that he is a recovering alcoholic! I just love the guy. So I came across this interview and I have no idea when it was filmed but it’s just as accurate today. Sober since 11/13/20 here!
Indeed JP
FREEDOM
@@sakeboersma if youre a real alcoholic the idea of a relapse is deadly serious, not to be spoken of lightly. I suspect youve never felt the real pain alcoholism can cause and therefore a relapse doesnt seem significant, over time if you keep on youll see what i mean.
I also stopped drinking around Nov 2017.. got 5+ years now
The generosity of this man, to openly share his battle, is remarkable. And a wonderful artist.
The biggest roadblock to sobriety is "battling". Recovery begins with "surrendering".
That man has more style in his beard than I do my whole body
thefilthelement Lol 😊
I agree! And I'm a drop-dead, gorgeous, blond, 21 year old!
Just kidding.
thefilthelement lol
Yeah, but YOU DO. You're just not seeing it yet.
hah thats funny, another funny thing is he is related to my husband thru George Soule from the Mayflower, they have the same DNA, also does Richard Gere....Dick is gorgeous and reminds me of my brother David who is tall too, Dick's voice is lovely and he is quick, another funny thing is my husbands girlfriend in the 70's was a waitress, she worked at a bar where Dick and other famous movie stars would frequent, in Scottsdale, AZ, Dick and many other famous men would pinch the waitresses butts, they were used to it and got big tips, she said Dick did this a lot, and I bet he was drunk at the time maybe does not remember but what do I know right...she told my husband this, so there is your proof...
Cavett was at his best here. Compassionate but not pitiful, asking direct questions without being patronizing or judgmental. Beautiful little conversation piece, made all the more better by Van Dyke's acceptance and openness about his disease.
Agreed, he has a direct attitude and brought out the best in Dick Van Dyke.
Well said Mr. Tulip.
@Mr. Tulip: You meant "not pitying."
Dick VD, is also, a good; socially conscious man.
Agreed, Cavet’s interviewing technique was spot on. Intelligent and conversational style. Dick Van Dyke has integrity and is open and honest. Puts the current interviewers to shame.
One of the most eloquent, ego-less testimonies I've heard on alcoholism. It will continue to save lives with its release today.
Love
This was a classic and very helpful testimony and conversation.
It will save lives like Bernie’s presidency.
LETS GOOO
#BERNIE2020
Yeeeah buddy..
Dick Van Dyke was always a class act. One of the great icons of the 1960s. He was to TV what Clark Gable was to movies. Strikingly handsome with that beard!
I love that these two great gentlemen are still with us. August 2023. ❤❤
Amen! Still with us 12/15/2024. Van Dyke just celebrated his 99th birthday. Two of the good guys.
22days sober ,i know it looks short period of time,but i never been sober for so long since 2010,i even started to smile and workout😊
Gabbana, great job! It takes courage to do what you are doing. Be strong enough to ask for help when you need it. You are worth the effort. ❤
Best of luck. I hope you can stay with it. If you fall off no shame start again.
You were a nicer person when you were drunk! Now you're a pain in the ass cleaning up the house and complaining about cobwebs in the corners and behind the TV set and dog hairs on the sofa! Ha! You won't be long getting tired of constantly cleaning up the house and brushing up the back yard and cutting the lawn! At least with having a belly full of booze the house could be like the town dump and you'd be lying on the floor happily snoring your head off with bubbles of whiskey coming down your nose! 22 days! For Gods sake have pity on your poor family and go back on the sauce! At least when you were on the floor snoring and half buried under last weeks newspapers, you were not bothering anyone! Now your a pain in the ass...get out there, get a few bottles and give your family a little peace and quiet!
@@gabbana1993 When I was commenting about you I was of course talking about myself and I was just about reaching the end of a bottle of whiskey. I speak in all honesty when I say I wish you the best of luck in what might not be a life or death battle, but is certainly a chance of a better life. It's a bit late for me since the woman I married was a non drinking battle axe, now she's a wine drinking bottle axe.! She's a Catholic who says that if wine is good enough for the Pope it's good enough for her! So she spends a lot of time in church lately, and she's inclined to sway a little when she comes home! No shortage of wine in the church so I'm told, so she might run off with the priest poor man, in any case my friend I'm off to lie on the floor under last weeks newspapers but I send you my genuine best wishes!
It isn't about time. It is about surrender acceptance and intent. Much love. You can do this.
Still alive at 97 what an amazing story of recovery this man is. He’s so inspiring to me as an alcoholic. I used to think it helped. Now I feel so isolated and drink only by myself. It’s astonishingly destructive and no doubt the worst drug there is
Don't worry Friend, you'll get there. Sounds like you're already halfway there by admitting it. I'm praying for you.
Won't say the worst just the most easily accessible and socially acceptable.
@@nostalgicbliss5547 Benzodiazepines are actually worse.
@@SofaKingShit Absolutely two thumbs up on that statement. For those who have had to deal with the withdrawal effects from benzodiazepines.....any thing else is a walk in the park. Best wishes to you.
that plus it is interesting to see that even with alcohol abuse.. it did not shorten the lifespan like many would let you belive it would
So nice to see two “real gentlemen “ have a non-judgmental conversation on a difficult topic. Good job, gentlemen! 👍🏻
We’ve gone backwards
I've met a lot of big name actors, and rockstars and I have to say, Dick Van Dyke is my absolute favorite. Unbelievably humble, kind, funny, open and engaging. A REAL star.
I worshipped him as a child. His TV shows, his guest appearances on Carol Burnett, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He was amazing.
One of the greatest entertainers and most charismatic people who ever lived. Words cannot describe how lucky we are to have him!
9 months sober! It all started because of this video.
Wow. Good for you.
That's wonderful. Congrats & best wishes going forward.
You are doing something very hard. You should feel very good about yourself.
Lies
@@dereksmallsuk thanks buddy!
One of the most eloquent discussions about alcoholism I've heard.
So so true xxx
Have you seen them all?
Absolutely ❤
I'll have 1 year sober on Friday September 11, 2020🙏HALLELUJAH🙏
@Fred Sanderson Oh Fred. You went there. >_
Good on you!!!
Angels around you.
You are amazing in every way
@@NSGrendel it was Israel.
Im recovering ive been sober and am thankfull for that since New Years eve 2023
This is one of the best, most eloquent discussions about alcoholism I’ve ever heard. He knows his stuff.
ph0b0s0 - Thanks, I will! 👍🏼
I am addicted to opioids and just replaced the word alcohol with pills and listened to this interview 2 or 3 times. I mean how great was Dick Cavett. If it was jimmy Kimmel, or jimmy falon, or james corden everything would of been laughing or a joke or interrupting the poor guy. What a classy interview guys. Thank you
I'm addicted to sugar (chocolate, ice cream, cakes .....) and have to say there are very strong parallels with what Dick says about his addiction to alcohol.
@@sleeves1235 So true, but there's a lot of podcasts nowadays that are just as interesting as Dick Cavett's interviews were...you just have to look around.
Good luck man. Get all the help you can, and just do your best to beat the demon. I've struggled with addiction myself, and I'm seeing some things in this interview to be concerned about alcohol-wise. The main thing I think is to find a way to give yourself a chance to compare what life is like with the drug vs. without it. I beat smoking that way--I forced myself to stay with the program even though I knew I felt better without the cigarettes. In the end, I was counting the days until I could stop smoking again--I was so glad to be rid of those things, and I still am.
Six months clear and sober so far. Amazing to see this.
Well done
What I learned about staying sober is that it requires "rigorous honesty," like Mr. Van Dyke was.
Currently sixteen months sober! A day-to-day reckoning is required with what I am and what could happen if I relapse, but so far? So good!
Good for you. Keep up the good work.
Congratulations! I hope you're still doing well today
Cavette was likable and good commentator. He didn't attack his guest or put them down. He asked intelligent questions and let his guests answer the question without interrupting or talking over them.
I like the seriousness of the conversations unlike today's crap
Too bad today's talk shows can't follow Dick Cavett's example...
VERY rare these days. A great host and nobody pushing an agenda
@@richardking1438 Like on "Kelly and Mark". lol
Imagine a time when this level of honest thoughtful conversation made for compelling enough content for people to sit down and listen to?
He’s so smart, aware and true. His eyes are so deep and soulful. Bless him.
Sydney Jane I've met Dick he has the bluest eyes like wow great man
I’ve never seen Dick interviewed before, he is incredibly self aware and articulate. Great interview. I miss these long, well researched and in depth interviews. Thanks for posting.
I agree Laura, so lovely to enjoy and to experience, very well said...
Some podcasts available now definitely reflect this style of interviewing! You just can’t find it on TV any longer.
@@TehPwnographer Dick Cavett is a great interviewer
It's a tribute to his character that he hasn't become judgemental and preachy, as some recovering addicts do.
You can find the video of Dick Van Dyke on Kevin Pollak's Chat Show in TH-cam. It's fantastic. Dick Van Dyke is SUCH a cool guy.
That is the frankest admission of alcoholism i have ever seen in a celebrity
No it's fraudulent. The demon of alchoholism and addiction is spiritual, supernatural portal for possession. This guy is saying it's all physical, and redirecting from the truth. Jesus cures these things, aa defines alchoholism as a spiritual problem also btw, that's the main reason for its success.
I think only an established actor whose very name ensures box office success could be so frank. We would probably condemn anyone less worthy.
Richard Burton's interviews are pretty good. He admits he has a problem, knows he has a problem, but the tragic part is that he doesn't want to stop.
@@trentsc4929 So if a faithful individual isn't cured through faith alone, your supposition that you will present in analysis of their continued addiction will of course be that they are clearly not faithful enough, that there is a deep flaw in their character preventing them from being faithful enough to be cured by Jesus, rather than acknowledging the possibility that you are wrong or that you are a liar who is looking to invalidate the statements of those who have found medical treatment successfully, to deprecate them and accuse them of fraud in the interest of elevating your own hit-job ministry.
Most people here aren't going to have much difficulty, looking between your statement and his, in determining who is engaging in fraudulent suppositions. He didn't invalidate the statements of those stating that they were cured by their faith, yet you felt the need to try and invalidate those who acknowledge a physiological cause in which their addiction is rooted. In favor of one which makes the faithful infallible to addiction and if which addiction is proof of faithlessness, of course. Also, AA fails somewhere around 95-97% of the people who enter into it, and attributes that failure of all but about the 3% of people entering into their program to character flaws/lack of faith rhetoric, rather than taking responsibility for a flawed praxis or lack of substantive alternative treatment practices, just as you're about to do. Something else which you were poised to try and lie about. Condemning those 97% to continued disease and suffering for the sake of attempting to advance your personal ministry through your mortal and lightly educated ley interpretation of scripture at the full expense of the sick and the vulnerable is a shameful and treacherous, blasphemous obscenity.
Craig Ferguson did a really good monologue about his alcoholism on his old late night show that started off as a defense of Brittney Spears when she was having a hard go of things; definitely worth a listen!
I love him. Always so humble and honest. His wife describes him as, "the most perfect human being, I've never met anyone so happy, so genuine, so amazing." Wishing him continued good health. ❤
What a FANTASTIC explanation of alcoholism, heavy drinking and social drinking....I was really struggling tonight wanting to drink to numb some emotional pain from my sibling's recent death. In fact, I have two bottles of unopened wine sitting on my kitchen counter. I even got a favorite glass rinsed & ready for the pour, but hesitated long enough to watch this interview and before I got half way in, the craving vanished. You see, I've been sober for 14 months and LOVE being sober. I was SO angry today and so very angry today, I just wanted to drink it away and numb my pain, but really there is not enough wine in the world to numb me out and it will NOT take it away, just delay it. BUT it was THIS interview....I always loved Dick Van Dyck as an actor, but now admire him as a man who has a problem that he is successfully dealing with and helping the rest of us to deal with ours. Thank you Thank you Thank you for this whoever put it on here. It has stopped me from a big regret tomorrow.
I would love to hear that you are 15 months sober now
@@klewis2048 675 days & 21 hours sober according to my Quit Drinking app LOL
@@Quiche543 way to go, good job. ☺
Very proud 👏 of you. The old adage the "Straight and narrow" is one of the most powerful things to ponder and understand that its courage that keeps one on that golden path. It will be two years July 11th for me. Keep strong!
So sorry to hear about your loss...so thankful you didn't succumb to temptation! BE SAFE, GOD BLESS!🇺🇲🙏❤
It's amazing how refreshing these old interviews are compared to the noisy, fast paced, overly fragmented talk shows you get today. Television bosses now think that viewers don't have the attention span to deal with two people just having an uninterrupted conversation for this length of time. They would see this as slow and boring. But that's just not true. It's fascinating, honest, engaging, eloquent, thoughtful and just wonderful.
Coming into my 25th year of being sober. I can relate to all he said. It is liberating for an alcoholic to be free of the addiction.
Addiction weighed me down. Emotionally & physically. Happy since 5-23-12. Bravo to all!
Peace!
Congratulations~
Always admired dick van Dyke we can learn from this he is very honest forth coming
Cavett was a genius. The interview is perfect. Van Dyke was spot on. Clean and sober here since 3:30PM, 4 March 1982. My life has never been better.
Cavett also has conducted some of the worst interviews ever
Amazing! That’s about the same amount of time my (step)dad was sober until the day he passed away. What a blessing he was to my family. Congratulations on your sobriety! 😊
@@suescherdel6278 The joke is that sober alkies are the only people in the world who expect a pat on the back for doing themselves a favor. LOL
I am happy that your stepdad was able to get better and make your life better. That's the program. ;o)
I can't see any movie stars today with this kind of honesty, and humility..
a very strong, sensitive discussion about a terrible disease. The disease model of alcoholism was not as widely accepted as it is now. But there is still stigma and much ignorance around the subject. This, as you say, is a beautiful and honest exploration of it.
"I can't see any movie stars today with this kind of honesty, and humility."
You're just fooled by the acting!
And intelligence! Class act these guys were!
There are very few movie stars today, there are just people who are in movies
now its needed more than ever. celebs flaunt mental illness likes its the latest trend, but i cant remember a celebrity ever being this open about such a personal topic
I'm 4 months sober and I relate to everything Dick said in this video! I'm not a social drinker, I drink alone and I drink just so I can feel better. It is a constant battle but it helps to know you are not alone.
How you doing? Hanging in there?
@@johnnymadcap4126 yes! I'm 1 year 4 months and 5 days sober. Thanks for the check up 🙏
@@blaugranisto 7 months here
@@johnnymadcap4126 That's awesome brother.
@@johnnymadcap4126you still staying strong buddy? 8 months here
How eloquent this man is, this is high class. Great interview.
50 years ago this aired, about 30 years before I was even born. I’m 20 and a mentally unstable man. Seeing something as raw as this from a time I thought was way more civilized just adds to my disappointment of current society, but also hope of being able to still have these serious moments. I’ve never really struggled with drinking, although I’ve had my moments, but this eloquence, honesty and integrity of this interview is astonishing. Thank you for blessing my often muddled feed with a pure clip as this one.
You are so articulate, best wishes!
He's still alive. Let that sink in.
Yes I was married to one for 28 yrs and with him for 32 yrs and he is dead...colon cancer 2008. Sad. He was a good man who could not quit.
@@Hamigal Sorry to hear you lost your love. 💔
I saw this before the latest Mary Poppins and when he featured at the end... I just cried and cried... because we know what he has been through. If I live to 94+ I’ll be so surprised
They freeze him?
William Shatner's wife also was lost to alcoholism. He found her floating face down in the pool.
This is amazing. I think Dick Van Dyke convinced me I can quit alcohol and still be a total badass and then some. I’m definitely an alcoholic and he made me understand why. He gave me the courage to know it’s perfectly fine to be sober. This man put forth so much class, wisdom, eloquence, knowledge and understanding it’s unbelievable. This is gold right here for anyone who may have an issue, which I do. Me and Van Dyke actually share the same birthday :) Bless you all
Yup you can do it .definitely.
Go for it! Don't give up !
Live in the problem, or live in the solution. It’s as simple as that! 5/8/94.
I have never had a problem with alcohol because I realised it was a bad drug for me. So I don't do it. Not saying I would have been an alcoholic, but as soon as you think it is the answer to something you have lost. It isn't the answer. How could it be?
@nameless one you’re a worthy beautiful soul you can do all things through Christ who strength- nothing is impossible !
No bullshit this just changed my life
Brian Freeman wow
@@woodyobi Watch this video repeatedly and share it with others. Best wishes.
Good luck.
So so so happy for you
Brian Freeman Good luck, you can do it
I have just balled my eyes out at this someone I adore & idolise has been where I am now, im 30yrs and I'm checking into detox again and for the 3rd time I am determined I totally relate to every word he's said I also have cut off all the user friends that just want to party! Thanks Mr Van Dyke for your openess and honesty. ❤ from UK
Praying for you. Ask God to help you. Be humble and vulnerable.
3.5+ years sober, and the only regret is that it took so long. Watching this is a wonderful reminder.
Five years sober.
My heart goes out to those who are lost in addiction.
You deserve to live, and live well.
Good luck.
@ Zathael-in-black / Thank You"
THANX
17 years sober for me. Best thing I ever did, one day at a time.
Today is December 13TH 2024. He was born 99 years ago. Happy Birthday.
Gives this old alcoholic hope for some longevity.
I'm someone who found alcohol to be the "social lubricant" they say it is. I was terribly shy, until college. Alcohol turned that corner, and I had great experiences. Life opened up. Then, as alcohol took its toll, it became a burden. It's a toxin. It's a horrible, murderous thing. Alcohol is the saddest thing shy people ever discovered. It is death.
It is wow. Unfortunately I know all too well.
Your post is full of heart.
So true
"the saddest thing shy people ever discovered" is such a powerful line. Well said.
True story
I’ve never seen Mr. Van Dyke in an interview before.
What a classy, intelligent, articulate man.
I’m glad that he got over his addiction.
And Mr. Cavett did another great job as interviewer.
Wonderful, just wonderful.
The pros of a good drinking habit!
Addiction my arse
@@zapkvr Alcoholism is when the body is addicted to alcohol. That's why drunks have the shakes until they have their next drink. It's also why they have delirious tremors (aka the DT's...) and the shakes when they begin the process of stopping drinking.
@@4orrcountry It's delirium tremors you IDIOT. Jesus. And you're wrong about everything else
@@zapkvrcome again?
Damn he’s a beautiful guy.
It's his hair.
I always thought he was handsome.
That smile
so so yes !!! I am enjoying so much, love how he changed his face when expressing forgot what it was, his acting talent was so evident there....
True!
Wow what a handsome, kind, thoughtful, and well-spoken man! Please start making celebs like this again!
One of the great ones!
I think he is one of a kind!
This is the most succinct explanation of alcoholism I've ever heard. I am recovered, but the only reason I clicked on this was because I've loved Dick Van Dyke for over a quarter century and never heard his take on this subject. Almost everything he said was my exact experience. Is it possible to love him more?
One of the finest explanations of alcoholism I've ever heard.
Dick Cavett is probably one of the best - if not the best - interviewers in TV history.
Agree
Yep
Personally I can’t stand him and think he’s just average as an interviewer. He got great guests though and who were very interesting, so this helped him a lot.
This show was in what, the mid-70’s?
Talking of addiction as being a disease back then way ahead of its time. Many people to this day don’t believe that’s the case, whether it’s booze, or opioids, or even pot.
Dick was just one of a kind. Still going at 98, such a wonderful man, and the frank openness about his own battle has hopefully gotten a lot of people the help they truly needed - some even commenting here on this clip. Continued strength to you all.
This was SO heavy, and UNHEARD OF IN DISCUSSIONS, particularly publicly at the time. WOW! Kudos to Dick for bringing this to America, almost 50 years ago! P.S. Dick looks almost the same on this show as he does in 2022! Amazing! Thank you again for being such trailblazer!
Dick Cavett is a gentleman, just the best at interviews.
Definitely, as is Dick Van Dyke! The epitome of class, both of them.
And got the most interesting interviewees
frizzy red I totally agree... his questioning was sharp but respectful at the same time and he did ask a lot of questions that were interesting..... 2 fantastic entertainers
@Councilman Les Wynan today's talk show hosts are self important chumps who are trying to get their own misguided agendas across , and the laughs are few and far between.
He is a national treasure, a gift to humanity, and a very good soul, indeed.
he sure is !!!
Two gentlemen have a meaningful and nuanced conversation on TV. Complete impossibility today.
I had no idea that Dick Van Dyke is such a thoughtful, well-spoken, gentlemanly person.
If you should happen to read this, Mr. Van Dyke, just add me to the list of millions whose lives were made just a little bit better by you.
And likewise to you, Mr. Cavett,. You gave us a certain high-quality access to many of the leading personalities of our times. Ali, Brando, Lennon, Burton, Rubenstein... just a few of your many interviews that informed my life.
And now there's treasure that I'd missed, like Dick Van Dyke and Ian Mckellen -- and you.
I didn't know then, but I know now, how much is accomplished by even a small act of goodness. It ripples onward forever. So thank you both.
The man is pure class he's been sober since 1972.
Van Dyke is so eloquent and forthright about his illness. Cavett didn't shy away from the discussion, which probably had a significant impact on some viewers who shared the affliction. Without breaking the anonymity pledge, he laid it on the line. He had a fantastic life after achieving sobriety. An important dialogue for any time.
Many years ago I had the pleasure of assisting Dick Van Dyke at waht was then the Century Plaza Hotel with his checkout. He is the most gracious, lovely person that you can imagine. He waited in line patiently and smiled at me and made small talk. He is a true gentleman.
You really have to respect his honesty. I didn’t realise that he’d gone through this ordeal.
My OpenMind he IS really calm and honest
i'm 19 months sober from my alcohol addiction. Dick is a true hero for coming forward and also offering up such great insight, and to be honest a lot of it I already know but as an alcoholic you really need it reinforced to yourself on a daily basis believe it or not because the alcoholic thought process is constantly working against it's self. What can i say hearing this interview is a true blessing and is a reminder that if you're suffering from alcohol addiction you are not alone there is hope if you choose to embrace it.
Its great that these kinds of interviews are timeless. It's a shame TV isn't like this any more.
The most eloquent discussion I have ever heard regarding alcohol addiction. Thank you Dick Van Dyke for being so honest, humble and open about your past addiction to alcohol.
Reading the comments from people who have overcome alcoholism is absolutely thrilling. I salute your strength of character, your stick-to-it-iveness, and your love of your selves and your families. While falling in may not be a failing, rising out is a triumph. Thank you for your stories.
No random hooting or applause breaks from the audience. It was a simpler time.
Daxxon Jabiru it was a much better time We were a civilized society
Daxxon Jabiru - Yes, it was a time when rudeness was unacceptable. And civil discussion was “normal”. I’ve seen just how downhill our discourse has become from the 1950’s.
@@SteveMudflapMcGrew wasnt this when interracial marriage was still illegal and black people weren't given equal protection under the law?
I mean to point out that it is easy to view the past in a certain lens by choosing one or two things. I think we are much more civilized now, and just like back then, the timeless conversations will be what last
Nathan Bruce yawn. Tired. And totally wrong. But keep pushing a victim mentality
Blank Blank yawnnnnnnnn. Victim mentality bs.
A pure conversation show. Not a variety/chat show like we see nowadays.
Tmanaz480 Ya incredible, touching interview
The pure conversation has moved from television to podcasts
Indeed. Incomparable to the Ellen show, for example.
Takes a lot for a high profile actor like that to admit to having a flaw. I'm sure he touched a lot of people.
Tmanaz480
Check out Joe Rogan Here on TH-cam. 3 hr conversations like this... Really more free flowing. Rohan doesn’t ask as many pointed questions. It just meanders and ends up in tons of interesting places.
What a wonderful interview! So happy to have stumbled across it.
Words of wisdom from dear old Dick…I am 1 yr & 2 months sober and in recovery from this wretched disease of alcoholism.
Anyone who is battling to get and stay sober, please don’t stop trying! It took me 5 yrs to finally put it down and if I can do it so can you ❤
And he’s still alive, and in better shape than many (literally) half his age.
I thought he must have died...I grew up watching his show!
I thought he was dead also I was shocked when I stumbled upon this hes very handsome very honest n very handsome
And STILL alive today!@@celtictillidie67
Dick sounds so professional here he could be mistaken for an alcohol counselor himself. Very well spoken and educated. Congratulations on your sobriety.
Well not only did Dick go through the process of stopping drinking alcohol, his wife also did the same and then became an alcohol counselor.
Most CADCs I know are morbidly obese. I personally never got how they're addicted and going to tell anyone else how to get better.
What a kind, beautiful, gentle and honest soul. I always expected him to be a nice man; I never knew he was this lovely.
Thank you very much 😍
I'm a young man, way below 30, and it's very sad to me that this calibre of interview and respectfulness no longer exists
this is the most well done interview ever done about alcoholism to a very intelligent person that suffer from this addiction. USING THIS IN MY CLASS
so true
Wow. What a conversation. Both of them Living Legends. Marvellous interview.
Van Dyke is a legendary racist that makes sure the only brown people around are servants.
He's telling it like it is. and still relevant in 2020. 30 years sober here.
Congratulations!
34 years here! 👍🏼💪🏼💐
Wow - this is truly astounding. Dick Van Dyke speaks so intelligently and calmly. Just a timeless piece that is just as helpful today as when it aired. Nothing of value like this on TV today.
that beard is magnificent
He is magnificent! Always loved him since
childhood..and yes, that beard just enhances his beautiful face. ❤❤❤
dodge driver Same beard he had in that Columbo episode he did!
@@deanwilletts7428 thats right , i wonder if he had just done the episode before this interview .
I think they call it, a Van Dyke!
No beard better
Watching in May, 2023, and D. Van Dyke is still with us. Amazing interview. So grateful that these old shows are available here on TH-cam
Class act, and credible and articulate. He is still alive and seems to have come out the other end.
Dick Van Dyke was one of my first crushes. He has remained a beacon of wholesomeness and talent and he's a comedic genius. I never knew he was an alcoholic, but he is even more dear. That he overcame and is still here. Thanks, this was good. 💗
Mine too. He's still tall, handsome and looking 20 years younger than his real age.
Must be all the smiling and dancing and lovely personality that keeps him young.
@@cincin4515 Indeed! I heard him on a late night show and he said he eats an ice cream sundae every day, because as a kid he could never have ice cream and he loves it. That might be part of his longevity too. Quality of life! 😊