Michael Douglas Reveals Secret ‘Romancing the Stone’ Affair With Kathleen Turner

Michael Douglas has been teasing an honest look at his life for several months. When he announced his memoir, he expressed a desire to share the authentic story rather than just the highlights shaped by media narratives or box office success. The book is set to delve into his relationship history, his marriage to Catherine Zeta-Jones, his battle with stage four cancer, and his son Cameron’s challenges.

Now, the first major excerpt has been released, taking us back to one of the most cherished adventure comedies of the 1980s. ‘Romancing the Stone’ features romance novelist Joan Wilder, portrayed by Kathleen Turner, as she journeys to Colombia to rescue her kidnapped sister with the help of adventurer Jack Colton, played by Douglas. The film debuted on March 30, 1984, and grossed over $115 million globally.

Fans have long speculated about the authenticity of the chemistry between the two stars. In his new memoir, ‘One Helluva Ride,’ the 82-year-old actor confirms that the sparks were indeed real. Douglas reveals that he and Turner embarked on a secret romantic relationship while filming ‘Romancing the Stone’ in Mexico, after spending four decades denying any romantic involvement.

He admits that the denial was a facade intended to protect his wife and son. At that time, he was married to Diandra Luker, with whom he shares son Cameron, although they were separated. According to Douglas, both were engaged in extramarital affairs, and he had recently been involved with the film’s screenwriter, Diane Thomas.

The memoir excerpt details how he would sneak into Turner’s hotel room after everyone else had gone to bed. Costar Danny DeVito and director Robert Zemeckis were completely unaware of the affair.

The romance concluded midway through filming when Luker brought Cameron, then 5, to visit his father on set. Luker grew suspicious, spoke with Turner, and made it clear that she did not view her husband as available. Turner, not wanting to interfere, decided to end the relationship.

Douglas states he returned to Luker for the sake of Cameron, but he now believes they should not have reconciled. The couple remained married until 2000. This candid revelation comes from a star who has seldom discussed this chapter of his life publicly.

Turner, now 72, has already shared her thoughts. She told People that she was surprised by the attention surrounding events from 40 years ago, adding that she loves Michael and looks forward to reading the book. Douglas mentioned that he sought her permission before revealing this story, and their friendship has endured.

The casting process itself has an interesting backstory. Douglas initially wanted Debra Winger for the role of Joan, but when that fell through, he met with Turner over lunch to discuss the part. He has previously shared on Rob Lowe’s ‘Literally!’ podcast that Winger lost the role after an incident where she bit his arm.

Douglas and Turner later reunited for ‘The War of the Roses’ and subsequently ‘The Kominsky Method,’ maintaining their on-screen partnership for decades. The memoir is set to be released on Oct. 6, with People publishing the exclusive excerpt on Oct. 2. Fans who have long suspected that the chemistry was genuine now have their answer.

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