An emotional Michael Douglas was honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as his proud father and fellow screen giant Kirk watched on.
The actor, known for appearing in films such as Wall Street, Fatal Attraction and Basic Instinct, was recognised for his 50-year career in showbusiness on Tuesday.
Kirk, who will turn 102 in December, is a star of Hollywood’s golden age, appearing in films such as Spartacus. He was seated in a wheelchair just yards away from his son’s star, as well as his own which was unveiled in 1960.
The veteran actor waved at cheering fans as Michael paid tribute.
Before unveiling his star, Michael, 74, said: “My dad is here. In a month Kirk turns 102 years old. So those of you who took the under on him making 80 you lost a long time ago.”
He turned to his father and said: “I know, no son of yours is celebrating his 50th anniversary in the business, it means so much to me dad that you’re here today.
“I thank you for your advice, your inspiration and I’ll say it simply with all my heart, I’m so proud to be your son.”
Also watching the ceremony was Douglas’ wife, the Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones and their son, Dylan.
Douglas described Zeta Jones, who he married in 2000, as the “love of my life”.
He added: “Thank you darling for your support, your love and your patience. By the way in another week we’re celebrating our anniversary, our 18th anniversary, so thank you for the 18 best years of my life sweetheart.”
Douglas is celebrating his 50th year in showbusiness and reflected on a successful career which has seen him win the best actor Academy Award for his portrayal of Gordon Gekko in 1987.
He said he has been “lucky enough to be part of both classic Hollywood and the new Hollywood”.
He said despite the many changes “there are traditions that endure. Traditions like this ceremony, the collective thread that allows us to pay tribute to those of every generation that create the stories that move us.
“To me the 2,000-plus stars embedded in these sidewalks are more than brass honours. They represent real people, women and men who passionately cared about what they did and about entertaining people around the world.”
Douglas’ star was number 2,648 on the Walk of Fame.
