Ep 11. Michael Douglas
- TV-PG
- February 18, 2001
Inside the Actors Studio is an iconic television series that provides an extraordinary insight into the minds and lives of some of the biggest names in Hollywood. In season 7 episode 11, veteran actor and producer, Michael Douglas, takes center stage as host James Lipton delves into his impressive career and personal life.
The episode begins with Lipton introducing Douglas as a two-time Academy Award-winning actor, producer, and director. He goes on to highlight some of Douglas' most memorable performances in films such as Wall Street, Fatal Attraction, and Basic Instinct. He also touches upon the fact that Douglas is the son of legendary actor Kirk Douglas and how this affected his entry into the industry.
Lipton then leads Douglas through a series of questions that give us insight into his upbringing, early years in the industry, and his approach to acting. Douglas reveals that although he tried to avoid following in his father's footsteps, he eventually decided to pursue acting because it was the one thing he believed he was good at. He also speaks about his time as a student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he discovered his love for theater and became involved in various productions.
Throughout the episode, Douglas speaks candidly about his approach to acting and his experience working on some of his most iconic films. He discusses the challenges he faced playing a ruthless corporate raider in Wall Street and how he prepared for the role. He also reveals some of the secrets behind his famous "greed is good" speech and how he collaborated with the film's director, Oliver Stone.
The conversation then turns to Douglas' personal life, as Lipton asks him about his marriage to actress Catherine Zeta-Jones and how they balance their careers with their family life. Douglas speaks fondly of his wife and children, explaining how they make it work despite their hectic schedules.
The episode wraps up with Lipton asking Douglas a series of rapid-fire questions in his signature style. These questions ask the actor to reveal his favorite curse word, his least favorite word, and his idea of the perfect day, among other things.
Overall, season 7 episode 11 of Inside the Actors Studio provides fans of Michael Douglas with a fascinating glimpse into his life and career. From his early years in the industry to his most iconic roles, Douglas shares his insights, experiences, and advice with viewers in an engaging and entertaining way. For anyone interested in the craft of acting or the inner workings of Hollywood, this episode is a must-see.