It’s not every day one of Hollywood’s biggest names turns 100!
On Friday, Tinsel Town legend Kirk Douglas, who became a household name in the 1950s, rang in the momentous milestone with the help of 135 guests at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
While loved ones applauded the Spartacus star from tables named after his most iconic films (he’s starred in over 90), Kirk was flanked by his wife of over 62 years, Anne, son Michael Douglas and daughter-in-law Catherine Zeta-Jones who brought in tow their two children Dylan, 8, and Carys, 13.
Other A-list attendees included Dreamworks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg and director Steven Spielberg, who in his speech referred to Kirk as “the only movie star I ever met.”
“I wanted to come here and say I’ve been shooting movies and television shows for now 47 years and I’ve worked with the best of them. There is something that you have that no-one else ever had.”
The actor as Spartacus in the 1960 film.
Son Michael’s speech came from the heart. In awe of his father’s accomplishments, he mused: “One of the things that I find most incredible about dad is the third act of his life.”
“After all he accomplished in his professional career and what he’s given for his country, at the point in his life where he’s faced adversity, losing a son, having a helicopter crash, having a stroke, and what he’s accomplished in this third act in his life, I find quite extraordinary.”
Kirk’s response was true to his long-lasting wit and humour. “I wonder who he was talking about? He said some nice things about someone I don’t know,” he quipped.
The 100-year-old donned a tweed suit for the special occasion.
Catherine shares a special bond with her father-in-law.
Before Kirk could receive his birthday present – a single shot of vodka from his cardiologist and rabbi who had forbidden him from drinking alcohol until he turned 100, Catherine Zeta-Jones lit 12 candles upon his cake, which appeared a gold bust with his head on top.
“I’m so glad there’s not 100!” she joked, before leading a chorus of “Happy Birthday” with a string quartet accompaniment.
Congratulations, Kirk! Here’s to another 100 years.
WATCH: Catherine Zeta-Jones sings ‘Happy Birthday’ to father-in-law Kirk in the video player below!
The Hollywood royalty pictured with wife Anne in 1957.
