Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas have allegedly hit a rough patch ahead of their 25th wedding anniversary.
The famous couple is entertainment royalty for their stellar achievements in the industry and their years-long relationship. However, their blissful marriage, per sources, is not what it used to be after the "Basic Instinct" actor's retirement.
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas tied the knot in 2000 and welcomed two children, son Dylan and daughter Carys. Despite their 25-year age gap, the couple withstood the test of time and their differences, including a brief split in 2013.
Catherine Zeta-Jones & Michael Douglas Are Allegedly Facing A New Relationship Challenge
According to new reports, Douglas's decision to leave the entertainment industry has allegedly impacted his marriage to Zeta-Jones negatively. An insider claimed the renowned actress wasn't upset that her husband chose to retire; instead, she was displeased by the amount of free time he had.
"She's not begrudging him the right to give up his career, but knows it means they'll spend more time together, and she's not going to get the quiet and peace of mind she likes. It's going to be a challenge for Catherine having Michael around so much," the insider explained, telling RadarOnline:
"The marriage has worked best when they had space from each other. At one point, they were living in separate houses in Connecticut, and Catherine loved having her freedom."
The Oscar-winning Actress Reportedly Needs Space From Her Husband
The source added that Zeta-Jones wasn't the type to enjoy spending time idly with her lover, noting that her need for peace and independence was stronger after her children left home. She wasn't the only one dealing with the empty nest syndrome, but Douglas chose to fill that space with her presence.
Zeta-Jones reportedly did not wish to spend all her time with her husband and pushed him to attend events alone or travel, according to the source. "She'd like more space, but she's not going to get it, and he'll be around needing her to take care of him," they alleged.
"She knew the day would come with their 25-year age gap, but now that it's here, it's daunting," the source claimed. Douglas became Zeta-Jones' problem after he announced his plans to retire at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic. However, he implied he might return someday.
More About The Longtime Couple's Relationship
Douglas fell first for Zeta-Jones after getting enthralled by her performance in "Mask of Zorro." He asked his publicist to set up a meeting in 1998 and tried to sweep the actress off her feet with the bold statement: "I'm going to be the father of your children."
Unfortunately, his attempts to be smooth fell flat, and Zeta-Jones left utterly disappointed by his words. Despite failing to leave the best first impression, Douglas did not give up and had roses waiting for the entertainer when she arrived on a small island in Scotland to film "Entrapment."
Their relationship kicked off, and Douglas wasted no time ensuring his bold declaration became a reality. He proposed to Zeta-Jones in December 1999 while they were on a New Year's Eve trip to Aspen, per PEOPLE.
Shortly after their engagement, they announced they were expecting their first child and welcomed their son in August 2000.
The Lovebirds Were Briefly Separated In 2013
Months after welcoming their son, Douglas and Zeta-Jones said their vows on November 18, 2000. They welcomed their daughter three years later in April 2003 and remained united for years throughout their public battles, including the actor's throat cancer diagnosis in 2010.
The couple proudly celebrated Douglas becoming cancer-free in 2011, opening up about how their love and support for each other helped them overcome his health battle. Surprisingly, their tune changed in August 2013 when they announced their separation.
At the time, a source claimed Douglas's cancer battle and Zeta-Jones's bipolar II disorder had strained their relationship.
Fortunately, the split was brief, with Douglas announcing they were working things out in September 2013. The lovebirds reunited and made their first public appearance at the annual Monte Cristo Awards in April 2014.
Catherine Zeta-Jones Raved About Her Marriage To Michael Douglas
Eight years after their reunion, Zeta-Jones proved she and Douglas were still going strong during a 2022 appearance on "Late Night with Seth Meyers." She noted how fantastic it was to mark her 22nd wedding anniversary, per Independent, raving:
"Can you imagine 22 years? And we have the same birthday. So 25 September is our same birthday. 25 years difference. Not the same day."
Zeta-Jones echoed similar sentiments a month before the interview at the Los Angeles premiere of Tim Burton's "Wednesday" series.
The Blast covered the story, reporting that she felt blessed to be married to Douglas. "I lucked out big time. He's a wonderful husband. He's a wonderful father," the actress declared.
Can Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas overcome the alleged rough patch in their marriage?
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