Dick Van Dyke Talks About His Stan Laurel Impersonation | The Dick Cavett Show

Sounds like he has a lot to work on!
Date aired - November 14th 1974 - Dick Van Dyke
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Dick Cavett has been nominated for eleven Emmy awards (the most recent in 2012 for the HBO special, Mel Brooks and Dick Cavett Together Again), and won three. Spanning five decades, Dick Cavett’s television career has defined excellence in the interview format. He started at ABC in 1968, and also enjoyed success on PBS, USA, and CNBC.
His most recent television successes were the September 2014 PBS special, Dick Cavett’s Watergate, followed April 2015 by Dick Cavett’s Vietnam. He has appeared in movies, tv specials, tv commercials, and several Broadway plays. He starred in an off-Broadway production ofHellman v. McCarthy in 2014 and reprised the role at Theatre 40 in LA February 2015.
Cavett has published four books beginning with Cavett (1974) and Eye on Cavett (1983), co-authored with Christopher Porterfield. His two recent books -- Talk Show: Confrontations, Pointed Commentary, and Off-Screen Secrets (2010) and Brief Encounters: Conversations, Magic moments, and Assorted Hijinks(October 2014) are both collections of his online opinion column, written for The New York Times since 2007. Additionally, he has written for The New Yorker, TV Guide, Vanity Fair, and elsewhere.
#thedickcavettshow #DickVanDyke #StanLaurel

[@drewboogie2849]

Dick Cavett’s impersonation is spot on 😳

[@alexanderjaques2781]

This is why KZbin is brilliant...

[@vsmokethon]

IF USED RIGHT

[@pizzaboy3946]

And why it should become involved in politics by banning content.

[@Tubbs777]

This is why I love you... 👁👁

[@Floridafanatic28]

He's talking about Buster Keaton but little did he know how at age 93, he would do a short dance routine in Mary Poppins Returns which entailed him jumping up onto a desk. Pretty impressive in itself!

[@jbradbury2]

Amazing!

[@Malouco]

He could take bumps like ric flair

[@jennifersman7990]

And he just won an Emmy for his work on Days of Our Lives, he’s gonna outlive us all

[@pronemanoldbutyoung5548]

Warms my heart when I realize great people being ”old” in 70s interviews, and they are still alive today. Imagine the stories Van Dyke can tell you about all the greats he met. He met Andy Kaufman and so on and so on. Now Dick is 93 and I hope he is well for that age and that he has one more decade to go before his time is done.

[@Pow3llMorgan]

Van Dyke I think has just looked old for a long time. He's about 48 here but easily looks like 60ish.

[@dsscam]

He's into his 98th year now and is still the best to ever live.

[@hellodavey1902]

How do we get back to a televisual era when people weren't afraid of even just appearing intelligent or having a conversation without pandering to the live or television audience?

[@sorceress1986]

I've been watching quite a few Cavett pieces in a row (ok, about 80), and I think Joe Rogan is the closest we have. Shows like this aren't going to happen anymore, they're going to happen on the internet.

[@madmadhatter]

They are called podcasts now...

[@annereilley4892]

I think younger people find it boring to see people sitting and talking with no action.

[@ruadeil_zabelin]

@@annereilley4892 Well we're here so there is an audience. But I think scott is right, it's probably better suited for a podcast nowadays.

[@annereilley4892]

@@ruadeil_zabelin I'm not sure what are the ages of those viewing the dick cavett show videos, but I suspect they are older. I'd be curious to know.

[@glamdolly30]

How genuinely charming to see two famous fans discuss their treasured memories of the great Stan Laurel with such awe and affection. Very moving. And wow do I envy them!

[@homegown1234]

I am a big fan of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy and would have given anything to have met at least Stan Laurel since he was still around for a while still.

[@glamdolly30]

@@homegown1234 Oh I totally agree. It's tantalising to think Stan Laurel lived in his modest apartment in Santa Monica, California to his death in 1965, aged 74, and answered mountains of fan mail from his desk there. He had sadly lost his comedy partner Oliver Hardy in 1957, and was utterly devastated - so much so, he was unable to attend his best friend's funeral. "He would understand", he told friends. Laurel refused to perform in any capacity, ever again, without Ollie. Incredibly, Stan had his personal telephone number listed in the public phone directory - unthinkable today for such a legendary star! Unsurprisingly, he was from time to time called by fans wanting to discuss his work, and he would happily chat with them. What a remarkable, wonderful human being. God bless him!

[@gallery7596]

Dick said his prescription for staying alive and healthy is this: "keep moving."

[@nycinstyle]

He is wise in saying that. Eating healthy and exercising regularly is the best way known to get a chance to live well into old age and even through one's senior years your best shot at being healthy is to exercise regularly. Also helps the appearance of both your body and face at every age.

[@michaelhungate7506]

He's 97 now, sharp as a tack, and gets around well too. You have to keep doing SOMETHING that keeps you engaged.

[@Bixfan78]

I was blessed to know, interview and write about more than 60 of Laurel and Hardy's co-workers, but I missed out on meeting Stan. (I had just turned six when he died in February 1965.) This segment is a particularly wonderful remembrance of him. Thank you so much for posting it.

[@davedaves431]

Yes, your book is fabulous. I got to know about it after seeing you interviewed on the South Bank Show sometime in the early '90's (?)

[@RedSox4JC]

What's the name of your book and which of his co-workers did you like the best interviewing?

[@eddierushing5416]

VanDyke is a true treasure and the last of a very gifted generation that brought so much laughter and entertainment for generations.

[@johnw8984]

Dick Cavett was the best interviewer on TV. He interviewed people who wouldn't go on Carson because it was to loud and silly sometimes

[@jennifersman7990]

Cavett was one of the few guys whose show made Carson nervous because he got a lot of guests who normally wouldn’t do talk shows

[@roomofidiots]

Cavett is just the coolest! His voice and speaking cadence is so unique and puts you at ease. What a personality.

[@johnhammond2394]

This interview is so marvellous its like just two friends talking about life. So easy going between themselves.❤

[@johnhead7100]

I am a great, great fan of "The Boys" and have now watched "Stan and Ollie (2019)" nearly as many times as "The Music Box"! Only after watching this today, have I come to realise the significance of "Stan" working on his shoes during the opening scene, and him fiddling with his "paper-clip cuff-links" before he went on stage. Just goes to show how much love and attention to detail went into making the film.

[@Frankincensedjb123]

One of my favorite performer / actors and human beings. One of the kindest guys you can meet, and considering what he's gone through with his drinking, a true survivor. You know he's got a solid character because in all these years, no controversies, like so many celebrities fall into.

[@nigelcarren]

I really expected applause after Mr Cavett did his Stan Laurel at 2:36 🏆

[@mkkravist11]

Proper chat! Lovely how they revel in talking about the genius that is Stan Laurel!

[@dannydorko7075]

1974..he's completely grey...and he's still alive in 2021. crazy.

[@brucetowell3432]

2023 now;-) Dick needs to interview him again!!!

[@tramlad2]

Dick is such a lovely man, a great gentle way of interviewing, so nice to watch

[@paulmelville2126]

Dick Cavett is the best interviewer bar none. He actually listened to his guests, asked intelligent questions and never tried outdoing the guests like so many nowadays.

[@Jayboot]

This is amazing, if I could meet anyone alive or dead, it would be Stan

[@jimgag2]

Jay Boot And I hope he brings Ollie with him.

[@Jayboot]

@burteriksson some people just want to watch the world burn.

[@lynnturman8157]

He looked older 45 years ago than he does now. What the.....

[@_Daniel_Plainview]

lmao he was born with white hair

[@dsscam]

Dick Van Dyke is now into his 98th year and will always be the best entertainer to ever live. I love the guy. I knew of his love for Stan Laurel (and John Ritter/Jim Carrey's love for him and their imitation of his physical comedic brilliance)- but I never did research Stan Laurel enough (although, of course, knew of him as Dick Van Dyke's comedic idol). But I never really studied Buster Keaton. I will now.

[@jamesparker40]

D.C. does an amazing Stan Laurel impersonation. Top marks D.C... Top marks.

[@MyLateralThawts]

Two of my favourite television personalities talking about two of my favourite silent movie (and early talky) stars. Can’t get better than this.

[@Sldumas1983]

Man Dick got a mean beard clean. Stan was one of my favorites and Oliver

[@jennifersman7990]

Samuel Dumas This might’ve been when he was doing an episode of Columbo

[@davidpenn9396]

This is So Funny which both of these guys met The Great Stan Laurel

[@herrlippsgartenbahn6093]

Little golden information nuggets these old interviews.

[@manofthehour6856]

Incredible! Legends in their fields talking about another pair of legends before them. Dick Cavett and Tom Snyder were always my favorite talk show hosts in the purest of formats.

[@Leadeshipcoach]

Me too! As a kid my grandmother would let me stay up late to watch Tom Snyder.

[@logicalnetwork1611]

Im from England and Dick Cavett is pure genius .

[@beauxnouveauxfinearts4391]

Would really love to see your interview with Rudolph Nureyev! I am so enjoying all of these enlightening interviews thanks for posting!

[@Gasmurken]

This was recorded back when a normal conversations were good enough for the viewers. Back when each sentence did not need a laugh or a drum roll.

[@glamdolly30]

So true! How I wish we could go back to this relaxed, organic style of chat. As a former TV producer, I know nothing is ever as spontaneous as it seems. But everything is far too choreographed and timed to the nth degree today. A great shame, as we miss out on some really priceless anecdotes and interactions like these. Sincere thanks for the upload, to the uploader!

[@dazzaMusic]

Why don't we get talk shows like this anymore where I can listen to the guest without the host interrupting constantly.

[@badreality2]

@James Donnelly No, more like "classness" breeds contempt.

[@badreality2]

@James Donnelly Yes.

[@radioazma]

These are called podcasts now

[@lohphat]

Because talent-less frat boys run entertainment and all they want are ratings and ad revenue -- they don't care about the content.

[@darrengriffin8609]

Dick's impression was so good.

[@jahno7154]

Van Dyke should of interviewed Dick Cavett he seemed to know more about Laurel than Dick, and his impersonation of Stan was brilliant.

[@davidsanderson5918]

JAHNO71 Agreed. I think Van Dyke was a bit taken aback by Cavett's impersonation actually. He said 'very good' when he voiced the bilateral sibilance but didn't say more after that. A shame really. Cavett's impression was REALLY good!! Ah! He's just reacted to Cavett's squeak....'perfect'. I think he's a bit blown away! He maybd hasnt done the impersonation in a while and Cavett has a headstart! :)

[@edwardthomas2212]

Should HAVE

[@Simonize41]

It’s should have, not should of. Same as would have, not would of. Makes my blood boil.

[@deemdoubleu]

I like how Stan Laurel's voice was a hybrid of American and northern English.

[@muckymucks]

There's a great movie starring Steve Coogan and John C Reilly as Laurel and Hardy that takes place during their decline. Fascinating look into show business and perfectly wonderfully by both actors.

[@tracym.tolzmann3596]

Much of STAN & OLLIE is fictionalized -- especially an argument between the boys that NEVER happened -- but it does capture the essence and spirit of the real L&H at that time in their careers.

[@johnhead7100]

@@tracym.tolzmann3596 Very true, but the argument still made me cry.

[@xetaprime]

That was great! Thank you!

[@stuartmiller7419]

That's a great impression from Dick. Fabulous upload.

[@AmazinglyGayPhil]

These interviews are phenomenal, no over the top egos. No HEY ITS YOUR BOY im feeling a solidfied villain. I.e absolute Gangsta. Sad times. The charm Britain gave to America has long gone and the Charm America Gave Britain has long gone. Sad days indeed.

[@defiverr4697]

DVD had just done a Columbo episode when he had his beard!

[@simontaylor2319]

Dick Van Dyke's impersonation of Stan was perfect but his impersonation of a cockney was diabolical...good head of hair, though

[@markiesmith4537]

I was waiting for Dick's impression - never came!!???

[@andrewmstancombe1401]

Jerry Lewis said if he wrote a gag or script he would ask Stan Laurel, who was his comedy Idol. If Stan said don't do this or that, or scrubbed out parts of his script Jerry wouldn't do it. No argument Stan was the final voice on it. What more can you say Stan was a comedy genius Oliver was a great comedic actor with his own greats but the Act as Olly knew was Stan great friends till they died. In the 2019 film Stan and Olly Steve Coogan who plays Stan is a big fan as well. Attention to detail was king they played Stan and Olly against Steve and the American Actor move for move and scene extras perfectly in time. That's fan worship to its utmost for fans.

[@edwardthomas2212]

Andrew Stancombe Stan was asked to describe Jerry Lewis in one word. He said, "undisciplined".

[@hardlines4]

Dick and Stan are the best!

[@kevins.butler3402]

According to Mr.Randy Skrevedt's book"L&H:The Magic Behind The Movies"..Stan fell off of a platform and injured his right ankle during the filming of the boys' third and most beloved film opera spoof:"Babes In Toyland!"/"March Of The Wooden Soldiers!"and he was off the film for a brief time.

[@bookwoman53]

I suppose that I should watch one of the Laurel and Hardy films.

[@chrisminblkdiamond]

“If you cry at my funeral, I’ll never speak to you again…”

[@adamsinger123]

Can someone please link video of Buster Keaton doing the thing they described at the end? 😊😃😯

[@Mr-E.]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZPIaJ-Eprl-eq8

[@annereilley4892]

Everyone talks about Stan, Hardy doesn't get much love.

[@brumsgrub8633]

I love this, two men just chatting,

[@kristoffarrell6899]

Its sad to know that Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy were exploited. They made so little for being geniuses and a legacy that lasts. In the end the exploiter gets found out and dies in our kinds but the real stars live on forever

[@JoeRivermanSongwriter]

Amazing.

[@thorludvigsen9404]

Oliver Hardy was just as Great as Stan.....Just wanted to say that.

[@GoatHoovesInSpats]

I've always preferred Ollie!

[@SoNowIKnow]

I love DVD !!!!

[@nycinstyle]

May be the most empathetic character in showbiz history. Everybody likes Stan Laurel's persona on film. Laurel and Hardy superstars of film in the 20th century. So very many comedians that followed them consciously and subconsciously took cues and pointers from Stan and Oliver as they watched those two on film.

[@theplayer2286]

Absolutely right. What is most remarkable is how many great comedians not only were influenced by him, but they actually wanted to BE him. Peter Sellers is a prime example of this. Note his characterisation of the lead character in 'Being There.' Sellers, by the way, also used to frequently visit Stan in Santa Monica. The number of greats who beat a path to his door is astounding.

[@oriraykai3610]

Too bad Dick Cavat never put all that down in a book. What an encyclopedia of famous people he was...

[@JoeRivermanSongwriter]

Fascinating.

[@ColdWarShot]

And at 94 he did a full dance number on an office desk!

[@kevins.butler3402]

Comic/Character actor and singer:Henry Calvin played"Sgt.Garcia"on"The Zorro TV Show"..not "Captain Garcia"..he also played"Ben Cotter" in the Disney film"Toby Tyler'.

[@CK-dp6je]

Wow he is so handsome!

[@madjididj6293]

La seule fois où je l'ai vu c'était dans Columbo"réaction négative"il était formidable

[@Gannooch]

have nothing against the other celebs that were on this show but is this channel ever going to show the Dick Cavett shows where he interviews Art Carney or Jackie Gleason?

[@Gannooch]

How about any Honeymooners actors that were part of the main cast? These are rarities.

[@Gannooch]

I have nothing against the other celebs that were on this show but is this channel ever going to show the Dick Cavett shows where he interviews Jackie Gleason or Art Carney? How about any Honeymooners actors that were part of the main cast? These are rarities much like all the other Dick Cavett interviews

[@alexistarr]

Television was so much more intelligent in the 1970s.

[@NxDoyle]

Surely Stan Laurel's hat is in the Smithsonian.

[@steve_cdh7324]

Can someone please explain buster Keaton trick explained here? 3:45 Please i don't get what he meant. Edit: I found it this is what he meant kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZPIaJ-Eprl-eq8

[@johnmagill3072]

I'm like Dick Van Dyke on Buster Keaton on that gag . I can not figure out how he did it. Here he is on the Ed Wynn show doing it. The gag is at 10:15. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eH2sdXmhbLWAgsk

[@g8btony]

It's actually at 8:30

[@mikaelvasararadiopromo9758]

I Saw him in Colombo

[@theUroshman]

For those who have never seen what Buster Keaton could do, there's this video in which he does exactly the same trick which Van Dyke and Dick Cavett mention in the show. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eH2sdXmhbLWAgsk

[@neonskyline1]

Cavett looks and sounds amazingly like Bush, Carlin looked like George Bush as well

[@chuckfrost5624]

DICK CAVETT WAS THE BEST INTERVIEWER ON NATIONAL TV BECAUSE THE OTHER INTERVIEWERS WERE SO MEDIOCRE. THERE WERE BETTER INTERVIEWERS ON MANY OF THE LOCAL STATIONS AROUND THE COUNTRY BUT MANY NEVER BECAME NATIONAL.

[@MRAPEXPREDATOR1]

He’s from Preston Lancashire. Northern city in England and great place

[@lesleybates2413]

He was from Ulverston in Cumbria. Great laurel and hardy museum there. Worth a visit.

[@MRAPEXPREDATOR1]

Lesley Bates he was mate my bad 👍

[@lesleybates2413]

@@MRAPEXPREDATOR1 that's ok.the house he was born is there with a blue plaque outside.

[@MRAPEXPREDATOR1]

Lesley Bates I have worked up that way but always thought he was born in Preston.I think the place where he was born used to be part of Lancashire buts now Cumbria.

[@lesleybates2413]

@@MRAPEXPREDATOR1 you get about don't you. Didn't pass my geography GCE, not one of my strong points.

[@Mikevdog]

Great late night show. Nothing like the political drivel on these days.

[@MegaJohnhammond]

Dick Cavett sure seems to having a problem with his slacks.

[@speedypickup]

What is the medical issue they are saying he had with his speech? I can't make it out... Bilateral S.......... sounds like sibalence or something like that....

[@py2007]

He tried so hard to get him to do his Stan impression.

[@SSVEGETA96]

sob is still alive.....4of july 2019

[@danerd8978]

Both are

[@Joseph_Greco]

This is the Buster Keaton pratful that he's talking about kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZPIaJ-Eprl-eq8

[@micahbell8956]

It's called a lisp pals

[@WaterShowsProd]

There's a difference between a lisp and a bilateral sibilance. A lisp is the incorrect use of a dental fricative in place of a sibilant, whereas bilateral sibilance means the sound is made around the sides of the tongue rather than through a narrow gap between the tip of the tongue and palate.