When we talk about Kirk Douglas, we often remember him as the legendary actor who lit up the screen in classics like Spartacus and Paths of Glory. But beyond his iconic performances, Douglas leaves behind an incredible legacy of kindness, generosity, and love. And at the heart of that legacy is his wife of over six decades, Anne Buydens. Kirk, who passed away at the remarkable age of 103 on February 5, 2020, always credited Anne for their shared spirit of giving back to the world.
The Journey of Kirk and Anne: A Partnership Built on Philanthropy
During an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, Kirk opened up about the two most important pillars of his life: his career and his wife. He wasn’t just talking about Anne as his life partner; she was also the driving force behind their incredible philanthropic endeavors. The couple, married since 1954, believed in the power of giving back, and they poured their hearts into charitable causes that touched countless lives.
From Hollywood Stardom to Generosity
When Kirk and Anne tied the knot in 1954, Kirk already had a flourishing career. But instead of resting on his laurels, he founded his own production company, Bryna, to take control of his artistic destiny. This decision not only allowed him to produce films that resonated with him but also gave him financial independence. One memorable example was the movie Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, where Kirk starred alongside Burt Lancaster. Despite being under contract to Hal Wallis, Wallis had to pay Kirk ten times Burt’s salary to secure his participation. Kirk thought he was on top of the world, but life had other plans.
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As it turned out, Kirk’s lawyer and best friend hadn’t been paying the taxes and was living lavishly off Kirk’s earnings. It was Anne who stepped in and took charge of Bryna Productions, becoming its president. One of her first moves was to establish a pension fund for Kirk, herself, and their employees. This marked the beginning of a partnership where Anne’s business acumen and Kirk’s generosity came together to create something truly special.
Sharing Their Good Fortune
Kirk may not have earned the astronomical sums that modern-day stars rake in, but he certainly amassed more than enough to live comfortably after starring in nearly 90 films. He and Anne always felt a deep sense of responsibility—and joy—in sharing their wealth for worthy causes. Their focus was on identifying specific projects that could make a tangible difference in the communities they loved, particularly in areas like women’s and children’s health, education, and the arts.
Kirk once remarked, “One of the things that makes us happiest is being hands-on with all our philanthropy. It’s not just about writing checks; it’s about truly understanding the impact of our contributions.” This hands-on approach set them apart and ensured their generosity touched lives in meaningful ways.
