'Mary Poppins’ cast Then and Now: A look at the stars of the iconic musical fantasy 59 years later

'Mary Poppins’ cast Then and Now: Dramatic exits and plot twists turned the tables in style

Almost six decades since his iconic role as chimney sweep Bert in 'Mary Poppins', 97-year-old Dick Van Dyke remains far from forgotten. Recently spotted in a jumper proudly displaying the words 'Spoonful of Sugar', a nod to one of the film's enduring songs, he continues to carry the spirit of the 1964 classic. Here's a look at the later lives of the stars of the iconic movie. 

Julie Andrews - Mary Poppins

Julie Andrews made her film debut at 29 in 'Mary Poppins', earning a Best Actress Oscar. Following her success, she starred in the iconic movie 'The Sound of Music'. However, a 1999 throat operation left her unable to sing, leading to a lawsuit against US surgeons. Despite declining a cameo in 'Mary Poppins Returns', Julie remains active, contributing to 'Aquaman' and narrating 'Bridgerton'. With a £35 million ($44M) net worth, she now resides in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey.

Dick Van Dyke - Bert the chimney sweep

Dick Van Dyke's Chim Chim Cher-ee earned 'Mary Poppins' an Oscar for Best Original Song, also landing him a role in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. Now 97, he later starred in the 'Night At The Museum' films. In a touching 'Mary Poppins Returns' cameo, he played Mr Dawes Jr, and Emily Blunt and director Rob found it "utterly moving." In 2012, at 86, Dick married make-up artist Arlene Silver, then 40.

Karen Dotrice - Jane Banks

At the tender age of nine, Karen Dotrice portrayed Jane, the daughter in the beloved Disney film. She later appeared with her on-screen brother in 'The Gnome Mobile' and the 70s drama 'Upstairs Downstairs'. At 67, she retired in 1984 to prioritize motherhood, having three children from two marriages. Karen made a brief return with a cameo in 'Mary Poppins Returns'.

David Tomlinson - Mr Banks

David Tomlinson, renowned as George in 'Mary Poppins', continued his career with roles in 'The Love Bug' (1968) and 'Bedknobs and Broomsticks' (1971) alongside Angela Lansbury. The father of four died in 2000 at 83 due to a sudden stroke. In 2002, he was honored posthumously as a Disney Legend.

Glynis Johns - Mrs Banks

Glynis Johns, acclaimed as Winifred in 'Mary Poppins', had the feminist anthem 'Sister Suffragette' crafted by the Sherman brothers for her. The South African star, a mother of one, retired in 1999. Primarily a stage performer, she had notable roles in films like 'Lock Up Your Daughters' (1969). Glynis, the oldest living Oscar nominee, died on January 4, 2024, in West Hollywood, California, at the age of 100 due to natural causes.

Matthew Garber - Michael Banks

At the age of eight, Matthew starred as young Michael in 'Mary Poppins'. He continued his acting career with roles in 'The Three Lives of Thomasina' and 'The Gnome Mobile', alongside on-screen sister Karen. Unfortunately, Matthew Garber died at 21 due to hepatitis, leading to pancreatitis.