Michael Douglas States No Intentions Returning Acting Amid Health Challenges

Michael Douglas, 80, has stepped back from acting and has no real plans to return, though he remains open to special projects, as he shared during a press conference at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. He purposely stopped working after nearly 60 years in the industry, wanting to avoid 'dropping dead on the set,' and is currently content supporting his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and focusing on producing. His last screen roles were in 2023's Marvel film "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" and the 2024 Apple TV+ miniseries "Franklin." Douglas revealed his battle with stage 4 tongue cancer influenced his decision to avoid surgery to preserve his ability to act. Additionally, he expressed concern about the state of democracy in the United States under President Donald Trump, warning that the country is "flirting with autocracy" and lamenting the loss of idealism in politics, emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic values. Douglas was honored at the festival for his work on "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," which was screened to celebrate its 50th anniversary.