Few names shine as brightly in Hollywood’s constellation as Michael Douglas. Over a storied six-decade career, Douglas has not only captivated audiences as an actor and producer but also navigated deeply personal battles—marked by illness, family challenges, and a lasting partnership with Catherine Zeta‑Jones.
From Hollywood Royalty to Global Icon
Born September 25, 1944, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Michael Kirk Douglas is the eldest son of legendary actor Kirk Douglas and actress Diana Dill . Raised in Los Angeles, he began acting in the late 1960s, but his breakout moment came as a producer of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975), which won Best Picture and earned him his first Oscar .
His decade-defining roles in the 1980s—Wall Street (as Gordon Gekko) and Fatal Attraction—cemented his status, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor .
Michael Douglas Net Worth
Thanks to a prolific career and smart investments, Michael Douglas’s net worth is estimated at $350 million as of 2025 . His wealth stems from:
- Acting and producer paychecks (major blockbusters and indie projects)
- Back-end earnings and royalties (e.g., Ant‑Man franchise)
- Real estate holdings (estimated over $50 million)
- Business ventures and art investments
Douglas distills it well: after six decades, he’s financially secure enough to select only “stories that fill his soul” .
Michael Douglas Wife: Catherine Zeta‑Jones
Michael has been married to Oscar-winning actress Catherine Zeta‑Jones since November 2000 . Despite a 25‑year age gap, they’ve weathered storms together, including:
- His 2010 stage‑4 throat (tongue) cancer diagnosis
- Her 2011 bipolar II disorder diagnosis
- A brief separation in 2013, followed by reconciliation
They share two children: son Dylan (b. 2000) and daughter Carys (b. 2003). Their bond has strengthened over time, credited to mutual respect, shared values, and “maintaining a sense of humor” .
Battling Cancer: Michael Douglas Health & Recovery
In 2010, Douglas was diagnosed with stage‑4 oropharyngeal (tongue) cancer, later confirmed to be HPV‑related . Choosing a regimen of chemotherapy and radiation, he avoided disfiguring surgery and was declared cancer‑free by January 2011 .
He has since used his platform to advocate for HPV awareness, stating: “My cancer has made me a free man” .
His Father: Kirk Douglas
Son of Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas (who died age 103 in 2020), Michael inherited not just talent but also familial rights—like those to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest .
He’s maintained a balanced relationship with his father, honoring his legacy while building his own.
Career Highlights & Later Years
Douglas continues to work selectively.
Recent appearances:
- Marvel’s Ant‑Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
- Playing Benjamin Franklin in Apple TV+’s Franklin
- Producing indie films—including one with son Cameron Douglas
As of July 2025, he’s indicated a break from acting, though he remains open to “something special” .
Rumors around Michael Douglas death are unfounded—he remains active, healthy, and cancer‑free.
How old is Michael Douglas the actor?
Michael Douglas was born on September 25, 1944, making him 81 years old in 2025.
How tall is actor Michael Douglas?
Michael Douglas is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
Is Michael Douglas still married?
Yes, he is still married to actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. They have been together since 2000.
How old is Michael Douglas’s wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones?
Catherine Zeta-Jones was born on September 25, 1969, making her 56 years old in 2025.
Is Michael Douglas Jewish?
Yes, Michael Douglas identifies as Jewish through his father, Kirk Douglas, though his upbringing was not strictly religious.
Was Michael Douglas in The Godfather Part III?
No, Michael Douglas did not appear in The Godfather Part III. He is often confused with other actors of the same era.
Final Thoughts from Newtly
Michael Douglas stands as one of Hollywood’s towering figures—a performer, producer, cancer survivor, devoted husband, and son of a legend. With a $350 million net worth, a storied legacy in both film and family, and a marriage that’s endured the tests of time, his story exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and quiet strength.
At Newtly, we honor those who inspire—whether breaking down societal stigmas or simply choosing the roles that resonate. Michael Douglas is one such icon.
