Mary Poppins is arguably one of most successful films in its history. The 1964 hit launched the careers of leading stars Julie Andrews – who played Mary – and Dick Van Dyke – who played her pal Bert. It’s fair to say these roles cemented their names in history.
Following the success of the film, Julie went on to land infamous roles in The Sound of Music and The Princess Diaries. Meanwhile, Dick famously starred in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Dick Tracy. But what fans of the family favourite may be surprised to know is that the 98-year-old also secured a second role on Mary Poppins that is often overlooked by viewers.
As the beloved film celebrates its 60th anniversary on the silver screen, Daily Star has taken a look back at the magician’s forgotten role. Dick sat down with his successor ahead of the launch of the 2018 sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, played by Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, In a behind-the-scenes special, Mary Poppins Returns: Behind the Magic, Van Dyke revealed that he begged Walt Disney for permission to play a second role. He told the 44-year-old actor that he sought permission to take on the role of Mr.
Dawes Sr, the greedy banker, as well as Poppins’ close friend, Bert. But at the time, Disney said no – unless he paid for it. Dick recalled: “I had to go to Walt and ask him for the part.
He wouldn’t give it to me. I said, ‘I’ll do it for nothing’. Actually, I had to give him $4,000 (£3,000).
I paid him to do the part. And I’d.