Michael Douglas Confirms Long-Rumored Affair with Kathleen Turner

Michael Douglas has confirmed a rumor that has lingered for decades. In his upcoming memoir, “One Helluva Ride,” the 82-year-old actor reveals he had an affair with Kathleen Turner while filming “Romancing the Stone.” For over 40 years, both Douglas and Turner denied these claims.

Douglas describes Turner as “smart, funny, and sexy,” noting her distinct sultry voice. He explains their instant attraction, despite being married to Diandra Luker at the time. “Things at home were in a bad place,” Douglas admits, acknowledging that both he and Luker were involved in extramarital affairs.

While filming the 1984 movie, Douglas and Turner kept their relationship a secret. Although married, Douglas states he was separated, yet rumors persisted due to their chemistry onscreen. They publicly denied the affair, maintaining this stance even during the making of the sequel and their reunion on “The Kominsky Method.”

Douglas writes, “During the production of Romancing the Stone, Kathleen and I fell hard for each other.” He emphasizes the authenticity and depth of their connection, developed from working closely and respecting each other. Their relationship remained hidden to protect his wife and son, Cameron.

The secret was maintained from everyone, including director Bob Zemeckis and co-star Danny DeVito. Douglas recounts secret dinners and visits to Turner’s hotel room. “As Jack and Joan were falling in love onscreen, Kathleen and I kept the chemistry alive,” Douglas states.

The affair ended after Luker’s visit to the set, which led to a clearer acknowledgment of Douglas’ marital status. Following the recent public revelation, Turner commented, “Good heavens what a fuss about something 40 years ago! I love Michael and look forward to enjoying the book.”

“Romancing the Stone” follows Turner’s character Joan, a romance novelist who travels to Columbia to rescue her sister. She teams up with Douglas’ character, Jack Colton, in her adventure. Douglas and Luker finalized their divorce in 2000 after 23 years of marriage. Soon after, Douglas married actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, with whom he shares two children.