It’s been a while since we lost the Hollywood legend, Kirk Douglas, and renowned director Jeff Kanew can’t stop reminiscing about the incredible memories they shared over decades. Jeff, who knew the late actor for more than 38 years and worked with him on movies like Tough Guy, has opened up about the complex yet deeply loving relationship between Kirk and his son, Michael Douglas.
Jeff Kanew Reflects on Kirk Douglas' Family Life
“Kirk was often out working when the kids were growing up, but when he was home, he was incredibly attentive,” recalls Jeff, 75, in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. Kirk, the iconic star of Spartacus, shared a complicated family dynamic. He had sons Michael, 75, and Joel, 73, with his ex-wife Diana Douglas, and Peter, 64, and the late Eric Douglas with his longtime wife Anne Buydens. Jeff explains that this blended family structure sometimes led to a bit of tension, but it never overshadowed the love they had for each other.
Rebuilding the Bond
“With Michael, Kirk’s first marriage brought him and Joel into the picture, which added a layer of complexity,” Jeff continues. “But over the years, they overcame that. In recent years, they grew incredibly close. Their bond became unbreakable.” Jeff, who directed Revenge of the Nerds and collaborated with the Douglas family in 2009 on the documentary Kirk Douglas: Before I Forget, explains how the father-son duo managed to strengthen their relationship.
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“I believe Michael was driven to earn Kirk’s attention, to show him what he was capable of,” Jeff shares. “He went out and built an extraordinary career for himself. That eliminated any competitive edge between them. They transitioned from being rivals to a loving father and son, allowing them to enjoy a truly meaningful relationship.”
Michael's Heartfelt Tribute
Despite the typical family challenges over the years, Michael was utterly devastated to announce the passing of his beloved father. The
