Cast of the Dick Van Dyke Show, circa 1965. CHICAGO - Happy birthday, Dick Van Dyke! The legendary actor, singer and entertainer was born on Dec.
13, 1925, and so this December marks his big 96th birthday. While many know him best for his iconic work in movies like "Mary Poppins," "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" or perhaps his classic mystery series "Diagnosis: Murder," to others he will always be Rob Petrie — the affable lead character of "The Dick Van Dyke Show."Centered on successful comedy writer Rob (Van Dyke) and his loving wife Laura (Mary Tyler Moore), the iconic 1960s series blends a classic domestic sitcom with a hilarious workplace comedy.