William Daniels, the iconic star best known for his role as Mr. Feeny on the beloved television series ‘Boy Meets World’, is gearing up to celebrate a remarkable milestone. The actor is set to turn 99 on March 31, and in a recent conversation with PEOPLE, he shared insights into his plans for the special day and his thoughts on reaching the century mark in 2027.
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Despite his impressive age, Daniels expresses a youthful spirit, stating, “I certainly don’t feel 99 years old, that’s for sure.” When asked about the prospect of turning 100, he laughed and quipped, “Oh, I don’t want to be a hundred. Who wants to be a hundred?” His humour reflects a lively mindset as he approaches this significant age.
For his upcoming birthday celebration, Daniels plans to gather family and loved ones for a relaxing get-together. “To celebrate my 99th, the whole family is getting together. My two sons, their wives, and our four grandchildren. Half of our family lives on the East Coast, so it’s great to have everyone in one place,” he shared, emphasising the joy of familial camaraderie.
Remaining active at his age, Daniels credits his youthful outlook to various pursuits. He regularly attends fan conventions, maintains a workout regime with a personal trainer, and engages in filming Cameos for fans. “I do hundreds of cameos every year, and that feels good,” he noted. “It allows me to perform, which demands a certain amount of energy and focus. I think that’s good for me. I like being productive.”
Daniels’ long-standing partnership with his wife, Bonnie Bartlett, adds another layer to his vibrant life. The couple, who have been married since June 30, 1951, boast the longest active marriage in Hollywood, spanning over 74 years. Reflecting on their enduring bond, Daniels remarked, “I think the main reason why we’ve been married for 75 years is because we never seriously considered being with anyone else. So we had to work things out. You know?”
The couple prioritises their health and wellbeing, often exercising together several times a week. Their commitment to nurturing each other is matched by an unspoken understanding that they have built over decades. In a past interview, Bartlett expressed their deep connection, stating, “It’s like we don’t have to communicate almost. We just know what to do. And when one person is upset, the other person sort of kind of calms down.”
Throughout their time together, Daniels and Bartlett have not only raised two sons but have also become proud grandparents. They have shared the screen numerous times, with Bartlett even portraying her husband’s love interest in ‘Boy Meets World’, reinforcing their unique bond both on and off-screen.
As Daniels approaches his 99th birthday, his reflections on life, love, and legacy shine through. He is a testament to the idea that age is merely a number, and his vitality and zest for life continue to inspire those around him. As he prepares for the celebrations, it is evident that family, health, and a passion for performance remain at the forefront of his life.
With a legacy spanning decades, William Daniels remains a cherished figure in the entertainment industry. His humour, warmth, and dedication to both his craft and his family resonate deeply with fans and loved ones alike. As he rings in his 99th year, the world eagerly anticipates what this extraordinary man has yet to achieve.