Why Michael Douglas, 80, is in no rush to return to Hollywood after lengthy hiatus

Legendary actor Michael Douglas is in no rush to jump back into the actor's chair just yet.

He's "enjoying" Hollywood hiatus and doesn't "feel a burning desire" to return and continue on with his already incredible, decades-long career.

The 80-year-old two-time Academy Award winner, who last appeared as Benjamin Franklin in the Apple TV+ mini-series Franklin in 2024, has been taking a breather from showbiz to focus on producing and his personal life. 

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“I’m enjoying my hiatus and enjoying my life,” Douglas told Deadline of his hiatus. “It was overwhelming running the production company and acting at the same time.”

Douglas operates Further Films, an independent production company founded in 1997, which has produced films like Don’t Say a Word, One Night at McCool’s, Swimfan and many others. 

Douglas also made it clear that he isn’t taking acting off the table.

“If something good comes up that I really like. But I don’t feel a burning desire,” he admitted. “I’m still producing. I still love bringing people together.”

Douglas played Dr. Hank Pym in Marvel’s Ant-Man films, the most recent of which was 2023’s Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, but he’s not interested in returning to the role. 

“I don’t think so. I had the experience, and I was excited to do it,” he shared. “I’d never done a green screen picture before.”

He also acted alongside his son Cameron Douglas, 46, in the not-yet-released project Blood Knot, but the actor couldn’t divulge any details on its premiere date, simply noting: “I believe it’s looking for distribution.” 

In addition to focusing on producing, Douglas has also been spending quality family time with his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones and their kids Dylan Douglas, 24, and Carys Douglas, 22. 

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In September, Zeta-Jones shared a photo golfing with Michael, writing: “Go Green!! Weekend away!! Happy wife, happy life!” 

The couple recently celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary in November, with Michael writing on Instagram: “24 years ago my darling; wow was I a lucky guy! Happy Anniversary Catherine!” 

Carys celebrated her 22nd birthday in April and received a flood of well-wishes on social media, including heartfelt messages from her famous parents, who have been married since 2000.

Douglas shared a photo of Carys alongside his tribute. He also hinted that Carys, who reportedly studied Film and International Relations at Brown University, had recently graduated.

He penned a touching note saying, "Happy Birthday my darling daughter Carys! Congratulations on graduation! I am proud of you [Carys]! Dad."

His message sparked a warm reply from Carys herself, who commented: "Thank you Dadda I love you so much."

Meanwhile, Zeta-Jones celebrated the special day with two Instagram posts.

One featured a nostalgic snapshot on her Instagram Story, captioned with: "22 years ago my Easter Bunny arrived. Happy Birthday Carys."

In addition to the story, Zeta-Jones honored her daughter with an Instagram post that included several pictures, writing: "Happy Birthday to my darling daughter Carys. 22 today!!! You are the joy of my life. I love you to Neptune and back."