Published on August 21 2018 11:17 am
Last Updated on August 21 2018 11:17 am
He was Rob Petrie, Bert the Chimney Sweep, Caractacus Potts and countless other characters. Now Dick Van Dyke’s latest role is top actor in Illinois history, as chosen by voters in the Illinois Top 200 project.
Van Dyke, who grew up in Danville, was followed by Bill Murray of “Ghostbusters” and “Groundhog Day” fame and two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman, a fellow Danville native.
Also in the top five: Harrison Ford, king of the Hollywood blockbusters, and Gary Sinise, a character actor who has played everything from “Lieutenant Dan” to corrupt cops.
“The creative arts, specifically theater, film, and comedy, are deeply imbedded in the fabric of our state,” said Illinois FILM Office Director Christine Dudley. “These talented Illinoisans have shaped their genres and the entire industry. We celebrate their achievements and our rich history as we continue to cultivate the next generation of great talent and a thriving film industry here in Illinois.”
The Illinois Top 200 project lets Illinoisans vote every two weeks on the most inspiring leaders, greatest inventions, top businesses and much more. By the state’s 200th birthday on Dec. 3, voters will have chosen 10 favorites in 20 different categories – the Illinois Top 200.
Voting in the next category, top entertainers, is underway at www.IllinoisTop200.com. The nominees include Richard Pryor, Walt Disney, Shonda Rhimes, Katherine Dunham and Bob Newhart.
Here are the top 10 Illinois actors chosen in online voting:
The nominees who did not make the top 10 were Mary Astor, Andre Braugher, Dennis Franz, Rock Hudson, Marlee Matlin, Bernie Mac, Joe Mantegna, Frances McDormand, Laurie Metcalf and Gloria Swanson.
The Illinois Top 200 is a joint initiative of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, The (Springfield) State Journal-Register and the Illinois Bicentennial Commission.
Future categories include athletes, trailblazing women and unforgettable moments. Everyone is invited to suggest possible nominees in each category by using the hashtag #ILtop200 on social media.