In November 2000, a young Catherine Zeta-Jones had married a rich and glamorous Michael Douglas, 25 years her senior. Braving criticism and several odds, the couple had a fairytale union and went on to become one of the most followed couples by the paparazzi. Following an infamous pre-nup agreement and 2 children, the lovers are calling it quits.
They have not yet applied formally for divorce, but their relationship is definitely on the rocks, primarily because the glamorous movie star has become a grouchy old man. Douglas has reportedly began putting her down constantly, leading to raging arguments that would go on for days. The couple have even tied to take time out and spend relaxing vacations with each other. Sadly, their proximity was too stressful as they have changed as people.
Catherine and Michael are not the same people they were when they got married and have fallen out of love. Michael was recently diagnosed with stage 4 throat cancer and underwent treatment. Causes were attributed to heavy drinking and smoking. Catherine also experienced psychiatric issues, eventually taking treatment for Bipolar disorder. The age difference has also taken a toll on their relationship, with the couple deciding to spend time apart.
The constant stress of having to take care of each other when not in love anymore has resulted in their union dissolving. Douglas has been living away from his wife for some time now. He was also reportedly angry with her for not supporting his son from an earlier marriage after he was arrested for taking drugs. Catherine, on her part, slipped into drinking heavily due to the continuous trouble in the relationship.
They are together worth £185million. Owing to the pre-nuptial agreement, Mr Douglas will have to pay Mrs Dougals £960,000 for every year of marriage, not counting the many homes they own. Back when they were in love, 13 years ago, they were publicly full of admiration for each other. In the present, there is nothing but money that has remained of their marriage. Douglas even agreed that he should have divorced his first wife much earlier as their relationship failed much before the official separation.
(AW: Sruthi)
