Michael Douglas Talks About Retirement & Having No ‘Real Intentions’ of Acting Again

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Michael Douglas shares the reasons behind his temporary departure from acting, emphasizing that he’s not retired but has no imminent plans for a comeback. At a recent film festival event, the seasoned actor disclosed details about his choice to step away from acting roles. He also touched upon his health experiences and potential triggers for his return to the silver screen.

Here’s what Douglas shared about his hiatus, future outlook, and life beyond Hollywood.

Michael Douglas does not intend to return to acting

As a gamer putting down my controller for now, I find myself stepping away from the silver screen after almost six decades of acting. There’s no definite plan to pick up the script again, at least not yet.

Douglas shared that he’s taken a break from work since 2022, acknowledging the need for a halt, and further explained, “I’ve been working intensely for close to 60 years, and I didn’t want to be one of those who collapsed on set.” Michael Douglas clarified, “I’m not retiring, but if an exceptional opportunity arises, I’d consider it. Otherwise, I’m content watching my wife pursue her career.

In his latest project, Michael Douglas played Benjamin Franklin in the Apple TV+ miniseries titled Franklin. Earlier, he was featured in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, released in 2023, where he took on the role of Hank Pym. Additionally, Michael is set to act alongside his son Cameron Douglas in the movie Looking Through Water, which hasn’t been given a release date yet.

At the news conference, Douglas likewise discussed his medical background, mentioning that he was diagnosed with stage 4 tongue cancer in 2010. He put it this way: “Stage 4 cancer isn’t a vacation, is it? You don’t have too many options, do you?

He opted for chemotherapy and radiation instead of a surgery that would have taken away a portion of his jaw and affected his ability to speak. At the movie festival, Douglas made an appearance to showcase a freshly restored version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, which he co-produced. The occasion also recognized him with the Karlovy Vary Award.

Douglas expressed great satisfaction with having some time away, and humorously mentioned that, for the sake of his marriage, he’s content to act as Catherine Zeta-Jones’ partner since they tied the knot back in 2000.

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2025-07-07 10:42