Why Dick Van Dyke Refused to Evacuate as Wildfires Raged Around Malibu
As thick plumes of smoke rolled over Malibu and evacuation alerts swept across Los Angeles, most residents left without hesitation. But one beloved Hollywood legend—just shy of 99 years old—chose to remain.
What compelled Dick Van Dyke to stay behind in the danger zone while countless others raced to safety? The answer is both deeply personal and surprisingly tender.
The Mary Poppins star and his wife, Arlene Silver, have been facing the devastating wildfires that continue to scorch Southern California.
Despite the destruction unfolding around them, Van Dyke insisted on staying at their cherished Malibu property, a place filled with years of memories.
Arlene, 53, spoke candidly about their situation during an Instagram Live session, updating concerned fans. She shared that while many homes in their Pacific Palisades neighborhood had been destroyed, their main residence had, so far, been spared. Unfortunately, their guest house did sustain minor fire damage.
Without power in their primary home due to the ongoing Palisades fire, the couple has been relying on a gas-powered generator for essential electricity. Arlene explained that they’ve been cooking meals in a camper parked on their property and using it to charge their devices during the blackout.
“Right now, my priority is keeping Dick comfortable and in good spirits,” she said with quiet determination. “We’ve lost Wi-Fi and regular electricity, but we’re figuring it out together.”
She went on to explain why leaving wasn’t an option for them: “This home means so much to Dick. It’s his safe place, where he feels most loved and cared for. He’s lived through wildfires before and isn’t easily shaken.”
Van Dyke’s resilience is nothing new. Just a few weeks earlier, the couple had faced a separate crisis when the Franklin fire forced them to evacuate their Los Angeles home shortly before his 99th birthday. Thanks to the help of kind neighbors, they made it out safely, along with their pets.
After that ordeal, the iconic actor posted a heartfelt message to his Facebook page, thanking fans for their concern and assuring everyone that he and his family were fine.
Conclusion
At nearly a century old, Dick Van Dyke continues to embody the charm, strength, and optimism that endeared him to audiences for generations. Choosing to stay in Malibu as the wildfires burned nearby wasn’t simply an act of defiance—it was a decision rooted in love and a profound connection to home.
With Arlene by his side, Van Dyke shows that true courage doesn’t always come with fanfare. Sometimes, it’s as simple as holding onto the place—and the people—that make you feel whole, even when the world outside is on fire.