Catherine Zeta-Jones Calls ‘Nepo Baby’ a ‘Disturbing Term’
Catherine Zeta-Jones has chimed in on the “nepo baby” discussion, affirming that she and Michael Douglas’ two children are charting their own courses in life.
Zeta-Jones, 56, and Douglas, 81, are parents to son Dylan, 26, and daughter Carys, 23, both of whom are pursuing careers in the arts, following in their parents’ illustrious footsteps. (Michael is also the son of the late Oscar-winning actor Kirk Douglas.)
“They’re working hard,” the Wednesday actress expressed about her children during an interview with the U.K.’s Sunday Times published on Sunday, September 13.
Zeta-Jones shared that Carys “had aspirations of being Amal Clooney for some time,” referring to the human rights attorney, adding, “but it’s important to follow your dreams and passions.”
The actress acknowledged that “it’s challenging for [Dylan and Carys] to carve out their own identities” due to their famous lineage.
“This awful term ‘nepo baby’ is unfortunate because these kids didn’t choose their circumstances; they’re finding their way,” she stated.
“But they are passionate about [acting], and they excel at it. Otherwise, Michael and I would probably be the first to suggest, ‘Maybe a law career is the way to go,’” she added.
Zeta-Jones attributes the longevity of her marriage to the shared family business with Michael. The couple has been married for 25 years, and the actress noted that “working” contributes to their successful relationship.
“Michael encourages me, saying, ‘Go pursue that job, that’s incredible,’ and then he can travel to visit me for a long weekend,” the Oscar winner reflected. “It’s far better than the routine of waking up and asking, ‘What do you want for breakfast, honey?’ I truly don’t think our marriage would have stood the test of time if it had been like that.”
Zeta-Jones celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary in November 2025 with a heartfelt Instagram tribute to her husband.
“25 years ago today, I walked down the aisle. The intoxicating scent of flowers, the soft glow of candles, the beautiful harmony of a Welsh choir, and you waiting for me at the end of the aisle, looking at me in that special way,” she captioned a set of wedding photos. “I love you today just as I did then. Thank you, my love.♥️”
In her Sunday Times interview, Zeta-Jones also discussed the challenges of raising her children in the public eye.
“It was incredibly difficult when I had my babies. Living in New York and taking them to kindergarten was tough with [photographers] following us everywhere, it was awful,” she reminisced. “That’s when Michael and I decided to move to Bermuda and enroll them in school there; it was the best decision we ever made.”
