Michael Douglas, the celebrated Oscar-winning actor, has recently opened up about his future in the film industry, indicating that he has “no real intentions” of returning to acting anytime soon. At a press conference held during the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic, the 80-year-old star reflected on his nearly 60-year career in Hollywood, expressing a desire to take a step back from the spotlight.
Douglas revealed that he has intentionally not worked since 2022, acknowledging the need to pause after decades of hard work. “I had to stop,” he stated. “I realized I didn’t want to be one of those people who dropped dead on the set.” While he clarified that he is not officially retired, he emphasized that unless a project genuinely excites him, he has no plans to return to acting. “If something special came up, I’d go back, but otherwise, no,” he added.
Despite his hiatus, Douglas remains open to the possibility of participating in a project if the right script comes along. He mentioned that he is exploring “one little independent movie” but is also content with his current life, especially in the context of his marriage to actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. In a lighthearted remark, he noted that for the sake of a harmonious relationship, he is “happy to play the wife” while supporting Zeta-Jones’s career.
Douglas and Zeta-Jones, who married in 2000, share two children: son Dylan, 24, and daughter Carys, 22. Douglas also has a son, Cameron, 46, from his previous marriage to Diandra Luker. Reflecting on family life, he noted how important it is to balance personal and professional commitments.
Born to legendary actor Kirk Douglas and actress Diana Dill, Michael Douglas began his acting career in the late 1960s. He quickly made a name for himself with iconic roles in films such as “Wall Street,” “Basic Instinct,” and “Fatal Attraction.” His portrayal of Gordon Gekko in “Wall Street” earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1988, and he also won an Oscar for Best Picture as a producer for the classic “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” in 1975.
In recent years, Douglas has continued to receive acclaim for his performances, including his role as Liberace in “Behind the Candelabra,” his part in the Netflix series “The Kominsky Method,” and his appearances in Marvel’s “Ant-Man” films. His most recent projects include the 2023 blockbuster “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and the 2024 Apple TV+ miniseries “Franklin,” where he played the role of Benjamin Franklin.
During the press conference, Douglas also shared insights into his battle with oral cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2010. He explained his decision to forgo surgery due to the potential loss of his ability to speak, stating, “Stage 4 cancer is not a holiday, but there aren’t many choices, are there?” His treatment involved chemotherapy and radiation, which he described as fortunate given the circumstances.
As Douglas reflects on his illustrious career and personal life, he remains a beloved figure in Hollywood. His legacy is marked not only by his numerous accolades but also by his dedication to family and his thoughtful approach to his craft. While he may not have immediate plans to return to acting, fans can take comfort in knowing that if a compelling opportunity arises, the iconic actor may just grace the screen once more.
For now, Michael Douglas is enjoying a well-deserved break, savoring the moments spent with family and contemplating the next chapter of his life. Whether or not he returns to the big screen, his impact on the film industry and his contributions to cinema will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
