Michael Douglas shares marriage secrets with Catherine Zeta-Jones in new interview

Michael Douglas told People on July 10, 2026 that humor, honest communication and empathy are the core of his enduring marriage to Catherine Zeta‑Jones, even after a brief separation in 2013.

The actor explained that a "good sense of humor doesn’t hurt, number one" and that couples should avoid absolutes like “never” or “always” during arguments, a principle he says helped him and Zeta‑Jones navigate tough moments.

Douglas described communication as an "English trait" he inherited from his mother, emphasizing the need to discuss uncomfortable topics rather than sweep them aside. He added that putting yourself in your partner’s position before judging fosters deeper understanding.

Although the couple split for a year in 2013, Douglas maintains they never lost love for each other. He called the break a "mutual" decision and credits their eventual reunion to consistent, open dialogue.

Married since November 18, 2000, the pair have two adult children, Dylan (26) and Carys (23), both actors. Douglas recalled first seeing Zeta‑Jones in the 1998 film “The Mask of Zorro” and being struck by her confidence, which led to their meeting at the Deauville Film Festival and a swift courtship.

While promoting his memoir “One Helluva Ride,” Douglas revealed that he once made five phone calls to five different women he was seeing, informing each that he had found someone else—a move he says helped him focus on his marriage.

Reflecting on more than 25 years together, Douglas said the secret to longevity is to "make her feel as special 25 years later as the first day you started wooing her," urging couples to treat their partners with continual respect and humor.