John Stamos pays tribute to Dick Van Dyke on his 100th birthday

Hollywood doesn’t have many moments like this. As Dick Van Dyke reached the remarkable 100-year milestone, tributes poured in from all generations of artists who grew up inspired by its unparalleled charm, physical comedy and enduring joy. But one message, in particular, stood out for its intimacy and heart. Actor John Stamos marked the occasion not only by celebrating Van Dyke’s legendary career, but by honoring the personal impact the icon had on his own life, as a mentor, inspiration and living reminder that curiosity, kindness and magic do not fade with time.

The “Full House” star took to Instagram to celebrate Dick Van Dyke’s 100th birthday, sharing a heartfelt tribute alongside a smiling photo of the two together that quickly struck a chord with fans. “Happy birthday to the one and only @official_dick_van_dyke,” Stamos wrote, reflecting on the surreal yet deeply personal moments he shared with the Hollywood icon.

Stamos noted how unreal it seems that their stars are now sitting side by side on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a coming-full-circle moment for an actor who grew up idolizing Van Dyke long before he became his peer. Other days, he admitted, are spent thinking about how much he wanted to make Van Dyke proud, especially when he played Albert in “Bye Bye Birdie” on Broadway, pursuing even a “fraction” of Van Dyke’s joy, timing and heart.

But beyond the accolades and career milestones, Stamos highlighted the humanity behind the legend. He described times when we just had to “shoot the breeze,” laugh together, and remember that kindness and curiosity don’t fade with age. “You are grace, joy, optimism and pure magic in human form,” Stamos wrote, thanking Van Dyke for setting the bar so high and being “exactly who you are.”

Ahead of his milestone birthday, Van Dyke opened up to PEOPLE about what surprised him most about turning 100. “The fact that I made it,” said the legendary artist with his trademark humor and humility.

Despite this century, Van Dyke insists his outlook remains as optimistic as ever. “I feel really good about 100,” the “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” star shared. “Sometimes I have more energy than others, but I never wake up in a bad mood.” This enduring optimism became one of the defining traits of his public persona, earning him admiration far beyond his work.

To commemorate this milestone, Van Dyke recently released “100 Rules for Living to 100,” a thoughtful and often playful look back at the highs, lows and lessons of his extraordinary life and career. The celebration also extends beyond the page. “Dick Van Dyke: A 100th Celebration” is playing in select theaters, with screenings scheduled throughout his birthday weekend.

In his hometown, the festivities are even bigger. The Van Dyke Endowment of the Arts has partnered with the Malibu Film Society to launch “VANDY DAYS!” : Celebrating Dick Van Dyke’s 100th Birthday! ,” a two-week citywide tribute honoring the beloved icon’s lasting impact on film, television and the arts.

Over the course of his legendary career, Van Dyke has amassed one of the most impressive track records in Hollywood. He has won four Primetime Emmy Awards, a Tony Award and a Grammy Award, cementing his rare status as a multi-hyphenate performer whose talents span television, film, theater and music. In 1995, his impact on the medium was officially recognized when he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.

Even in the late 90s, Van Dyke continued to make history. Last year, he became the oldest Daytime Emmy Award winner for an appearance on “Days of Our Lives,” a moment that once again underscored his enduring relevance and appeal.