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Dick Van Dyke Reflects on His Iconic Role in Mary Poppins
11 Oct
Summary
- Dick Van Dyke, 99, shares how he almost didn't get the role of Bert in Mary Poppins
- Walt Disney personally called Van Dyke after hearing his comments about lack of good entertainment for kids
- Author Pamela Lyndon Travers was not a fan of Van Dyke or Julie Andrews being cast in the film
In October 2025, legendary actor Dick Van Dyke, now 99 years old, looked back on his remarkable career and the story behind his most famous role as the chimney sweep Bert in the 1964 Disney classic Mary Poppins.
Van Dyke recently hosted a charity event called Vandy High Tea, where he discussed how he almost didn't get the part. The actor recalled that it was a simple process, as Walt Disney himself called Van Dyke after hearing his comments about the lack of good entertainment for children. Disney then offered him the role on the spot.
However, the author of the original Mary Poppins books, Pamela Lyndon Travers, was not as enthusiastic about the casting. Van Dyke shared that Travers "wasn't crazy about anything" related to the film adaptation, including his and co-star Julie Andrews' performances. The author even tried to get Disney to make changes, but the studio head told her "the boat has sailed."
Despite Travers' reservations, Mary Poppins went on to become a beloved classic, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Andrews. Van Dyke's portrayal of the lovable Bert has cemented his status as a Hollywood icon, and he continues to delight fans even as he approaches his 100th birthday.
