Marriage to Michael Douglas

Zeta-Jones met American actor Michael Douglas in 1998 at the Deauville Film Festival, introduced by mutual friend Danny DeVito. Despite their 25-year age difference, the relationship progressed quickly. Douglas proposed with the now-famous line, “I’d like to father your children.” They announced their engagement in 1999 and married in November 2000, after Douglas finalized his divorce from his previous wife. The couple has two children: a son and a daughter.

Marital Challenges

In early 2013, the couple briefly separated. Zeta-Jones moved into her mother's home with their children, and while Douglas reportedly consulted a divorce attorney, neither party filed for legal separation or divorce. Representatives for the couple confirmed they were taking time apart to evaluate their relationship. Rumors circulated regarding tension related to Douglas’s family, particularly his son’s personal struggles, but these claims remain speculative. By the end of 2013, Zeta-Jones had returned to the family home, and the couple has since continued their marriage.

Past Relationships

Before meeting Douglas, Zeta-Jones had a series of relationships, several of which attracted media attention. One of her early public relationships was with television presenter John Leslie. The couple reportedly parted ways due to differing views on starting a family. Notably, Zeta-Jones stood by Leslie during a period of public controversy, although the relationship ultimately ended.

Notable Rumors and Engagements

In the 1990s, rumors swirled around a possible romantic link between Zeta-Jones and actor Paul McGann. Both parties denied the rumors, with McGann publicly addressing the issue, suggesting it aimed to disrupt his marriage. Zeta-Jones later became engaged to actor Angus Macfadyen, whom she called “the love of her life.” However, the engagement ended after approximately 15 months for undisclosed reasons.

Brief Relationships Before Douglas

Zeta-Jones briefly dated film producer Jon Peters, who expressed admiration for her in his writings. Despite his affection, she declined his marriage proposal. She was also linked to British singer Mick Hucknall, who has since described himself as a womanizer—a factor reportedly contributing to the relationship’s short span. Zeta-Jones had other short-lived relationships during this period before eventually meeting Michael Douglas and starting a family.

Public Scrutiny and Media Speculation

Zeta-Jones and Douglas’s marriage has frequently been the subject of media speculation. During their 2013 separation, rumors emerged about Zeta-Jones being romantically linked to actor Aaron Eckhart. She denied any romantic involvement, categorizing it merely as a friendship. Reports claimed Douglas was upset by the speculation, but the couple ultimately reconciled. In an interview, Douglas joked about playing a villain who kills her character in a film—an offhand comment that drew attention but was delivered in a humorous context.