Michael Douglas Confirms Longstanding Affair with Kathleen Turner

Michael Douglas, the 82-year-old actor, unveiled long-circulated rumors of an affair with Kathleen Turner during the filming of “Romancing the Stone.” Both actors had previously refuted these claims over the past four decades.

In his forthcoming memoir, “One Helluva Ride,” Douglas shares his experiences with Turner, citing her intelligence, wit, and distinctive voice as initial attractions. “Kathleen was smart, funny, and sexy with a deep, sultry voice that became her signature,” Douglas wrote in a preview shared by People.

At the time, Douglas was married to Diandra Luker, though their relationship was strained. Both were involved in extramarital relationships. “Things at home were in a bad place,” he explained, describing his separation from Luker when production started on the 1984 film.

“The truth is that during the production of Romancing the Stone, Kathleen and I fell hard for each other and began a relationship,” Douglas admitted.

Douglas acknowledged the affair was more than a fleeting encounter, stemming from their creative partnership, mutual respect, and shared pressures during filming. Despite public denial for years, including during the sequel and their work on “The Kominsky Method,” Douglas now confirms it was true.

Ensuring secrecy for 40 years, Douglas and Turner refrained from revealing their relationship to anyone, including director Bob Zemeckis or co-star Danny DeVito. Describing clandestine dinners and hotel room visits, Douglas reflected fondly on their chemistry both on and off screen.

The affair ended when Luker visited the set, inadvertently signaling to Turner the reality of Douglas’s existing marriage. Shortly after, Luker filed for divorce, finalized in 2000. Douglas then married Catherine Zeta-Jones later that year.

Turner, responding to the memoir’s revelations, expressed surprise over the renewed interest in the decades-old affair. “Good heavens what a fuss about something 40 years ago!” she commented, expressing her affection for Douglas and anticipation for his book’s release.