Barbara Feldon Opens Up About Filming 1967’s ‘Fitzwilly’ with Dick Van Dyke: ‘Being Around Him Was Lovely’

Barbara Feldon, known for her role as Agent 99 in the classic television series “Get Smart,” recently shared her reflections on the 1967 romantic comedy “Fitzwilly,” in which she starred alongside the legendary Dick Van Dyke. During a conversation on The Jim Masters Show, Feldon, now 93, discussed the fast-paced nature of the film’s production and how it affected the relationships among the cast members.

“Fitzwilly” features Van Dyke in the role of a devoted butler who conceals his employer’s financial woes from her by devising elaborate schemes to maintain her philanthropic activities. Feldon took on the role of Juliet, the new secretary who becomes romantically involved with Van Dyke’s character. Despite their on-screen chemistry, Feldon revealed that the hurried filming schedule left little room for building personal connections with her co-stars.

Feldon expressed her admiration for Van Dyke’s talents, asserting that she had always respected him for his work. “I admired him to begin with, you know, his gifts,” she remarked. However, she added with a hint of regret, “the film was made fairly quickly,” which made it difficult for the cast to forge genuine friendships. “You just sort of were ships passing in the dark and pretty much your relationship with the person is just what’s happening in the scene,” she explained.

Although Feldon and Van Dyke did not engage in extensive conversations during filming, she described him as “a good person.” Acknowledging the impressions of colleagues and audiences alike, she noted, “Everything that people have said about Dick Van Dyke in interviews that I’ve seen has been basically the same thing.” Feldon continued, “I didn’t know him. I never had a real conversation with him, but being with him, being around him was lovely because he’s lovely. He is good, solid, decent.”

Feldon’s comments come as Van Dyke, who has captivated audiences with his performances in iconic productions such as “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “Mary Poppins,” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” approaches his milestone 100th birthday in December 2025. He recently conveyed that, despite the passage of time, he feels youthful. In an interview with PEOPLE to mark his centenary, he stated, “I feel about 13,” and added that while some memories, like what he had for breakfast, may elude him, he can still recall the lyrics to his favourite show tunes with clarity.

The lack of opportunity for meaningful interaction during the film’s production has not diminished Feldon’s appreciation for her time with Van Dyke. The veteran actress emphasised that working with him was “an absolute pleasure,” a sentiment echoed by many who have experienced his infectious charm and kindness on and off-screen.

As Feldon revisits her memories of “Fitzwilly,” she underscores the reality of filmmaking in that era, where tight schedules often took precedence over personal connections. Nonetheless, her fondness for her co-star shines through her reflections, indicating that the shared experience of creating the film generated a sense of mutual respect, even if they did not form a deeper friendship.

The film remains a nostalgic piece of cinema for many, while the legacy of both Feldon and Van Dyke continues to inspire new generations of actors and fans alike. As Van Dyke approaches a significant birthday, his enduring spirit and talent remain a testament to a lifelong dedication to the craft of entertainment.

In conclusion, Feldon’s memories serve as a reminder of the complexities of on-set relationships in the film industry, highlighting both the joy of collaboration and the fleeting nature of time. While the cast may have been unable to develop lasting friendships, the mutual admiration between them is clear, and the impact of their work together continues to resonate with audiences decades later.