While Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remains one of Dick Van Dyke‘s legendary roles, it was also one where the veteran comedian felt very self-conscious, primarily because of something he heard on the set. Van Dyke went on to enjoy a tremendous career. He continues to remain active in the industry at the age of 99.
Here’s what the actor revealed about this Chitty Chitty Bang Bang incident.
Dick Van Dyke on how comments about his nose on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang set affected him
When fans look back at Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, they see only a beloved classic that was anchored by the performance of the legendary Dick Van Dyke. But for the veteran actor and comedian, there were layers to this tale.
During the Vandy High Tea charity event on Sunday, October 5, 2025, Van Dyke recalled an incident from the sets of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He says that the behind-the-scenes incident left his self-confidence shattered (via PEOPLE).
Van Dyke recalled his first day on the set of the movie, where he heard the director, Ken Hughes, speaking to the makeup artist. The actor was left shocked when he heard that the two were discussing his “hooter.”
“I heard him say, ‘What about the hooter?’” Van Dyke recalled. “And all my confidence drained out of me, all I got was nose jokes. I never thought I had a big nose,” he added. This was the first time he got insecure about his nose. “The first day was not good,” he said.
While the first day is not memorable to Van Dyke in a good way, the movie went on to become a classic, making Dick Van Dyke a household name. Even now, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is very well-regarded in its genre.
Van Dyke, meanwhile, continues to be present in the industry. He is set to turn 100 on December 13, 2025. He has no plans of slowing down in his career.
Originally reported by Sourav Chakraborty on Mandatory.
