Renowned American actor Michael Douglas has candidly shared insights about his marriage to Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, particularly reflecting on their brief separation in 2013. In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, Douglas emphasized that their split was a mutual decision, underscoring the complexities of maintaining a long-term relationship.

Douglas and Zeta-Jones first crossed paths in 1998 and tied the knot two years later. Their relationship faced a significant challenge in 2013 when they decided to take time apart to evaluate their marriage. At that time, Zeta-Jones publicly acknowledged the separation, stating it was necessary for both of them to work on their individual issues.

Now, at 82 years old, Douglas is promoting his memoir, One Helluva Ride, where he revisits the challenges they faced as a couple. When asked how he managed to reconcile with Zeta-Jones after their separation, Douglas responded, "What, I won her back? It was a mutual." He further expressed his deep affection for her, stating, "I love her dearly and, 25 years, you know. Marriage is a lot of work."

The couple's relationship has been tested by personal struggles, including Zeta-Jones's battle with depression and her diagnosis of Bipolar II disorder, which led her to seek treatment in a mental health facility in 2013. Douglas himself faced health issues after being diagnosed with cancer in 2010, which he controversially linked to HPV in a 2013 interview. He later expressed regret for any embarrassment his comments caused Zeta-Jones.

Despite the difficulties, Douglas remains optimistic about their marriage, stating, "We're in good shape. It's all I can say." The couple shares two children, Dylan, 26, and Carys, 23, and their enduring bond serves as a testament to their commitment to each other amidst life's challenges.