Ten fun facts about Charlton Heston

1. Michael Douglas: an acclaimed actor with a long and successful career

Michael Douglas is an acclaimed actor who has won numerous awards for his work, including two Academy Awards, four Golden Globe awards, and the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award. His most notable win was for his role in the 1987 film Wall Street, where he took home the Academy Award for Best Actor. Douglas has also been nominated for several other awards, including two Emmy Awards and a Screen Actors Guild Award. His impressive career has spanned over five decades, and he continues to be a major force in the entertainment industry.

Also → Kirk Douglas: Rejected for Ben-Hur, Cast Charles Heston

2. Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones share the same birth date!

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones have an interesting connection beyond their marriage: they share the same birth date! Despite the 25 year age gap between them, the couple have a special bond that is marked by their shared birthday. This is especially remarkable considering that Douglas is the same age as the late actor Charlton Heston, who passed away in 2008.

Also → Michael Douglas: From Actor to Award Winner

3. Charlton Heston's 'Traffic' Role Rewritten to His Satisfaction

Charlton Heston was initially hesitant to accept the role in the popular film "Traffic" when he was first shown the script. However, after the script was rewritten to his satisfaction, he decided to take on the part and was subsequently praised for his performance. His acting in the movie was heralded by critics and audiences alike, making it one of his most memorable roles.

Also → Michael Keaton, Actor, Changes Name to Keaton

4. Michael Douglas Produces Iconic 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'

Michael Douglas was one of the producers of the iconic 1975 film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest", starring the legendary Charlton Heston. The movie was a critical and commercial success, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and grossing over $108 million at the box office. Heston's performance as the tyrannical Nurse Ratched was widely praised, earning him a nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Douglas' involvement in the production of the film was instrumental in its success, and it remains one of his most acclaimed works.

Also → Melvyn Douglas: A Life in Theatre, Film and Television

5. Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Revealed

In the early 1990's, Charlton Heston made a shocking revelation - he had been struggling with both alcoholism and drug addiction. In order to address these issues, he immediately sought help and entered a treatment program. This brave decision to seek help was a major turning point in his life, and ultimately enabled him to overcome his addictions and live a healthier, happier life.

6. The Man Who Turned Down 'Love Story'

In 1979, Michael Douglas was offered the role of Oliver in the iconic film "Love Story", but he declined the part. This was a major opportunity for the actor, as the movie went on to become a classic, and the role of Oliver was eventually filled by the legendary Charlton Heston. The film was a huge success, and Heston's performance was praised by critics and audiences alike.

7. Michael Douglas on Stricter Gun Laws After Charlton Heston's Death

Following the tragic death of John Lennon, Michael Douglas became a passionate advocate for gun control. He was inspired to take a stand after the loss of the beloved musician, and has since been a vocal proponent of stricter gun laws. Charlton Heston, the iconic actor and former president of the National Rifle Association, was a vocal opponent of Douglas' stance on gun control. Despite their opposing views, the two men maintained a mutual respect for one another.

8. Michael Douglas: "Throat Cancer Successfully Treated."

In 1993, Michael Douglas made a shocking revelation on the "Late Show with David Letterman": he had been diagnosed with Stage IV throat cancer. Fortunately, he underwent successful treatment and is now in good health. Charlton Heston, who was a guest on the show that same night, was deeply moved by Douglas' story and expressed his admiration for the actor's courage in the face of such a difficult diagnosis.

9. Charlton Heston's admiration for Karl Malden

Charlton Heston had a great admiration for the late actor Karl Malden, who he considered to be his mentor. Heston was inspired by Malden's career, which spanned over seven decades and included roles in iconic films such as A Streetcar Named Desire, On the Waterfront, and The Streets of San Francisco. Heston was particularly impressed by Malden's ability to remain relevant in the ever-changing film industry, and he often sought Malden's advice on his own career.

10. Michael Douglas, son of Kirk Douglas, named after Charlton Heston

Michael Douglas, the son of Kirk Douglas, was named after his father, as his middle name is also Kirk. The late Charlton Heston, who was a close friend of Kirk Douglas, was the one who suggested the name to the actor. Heston was a renowned actor himself, having starred in iconic films such as The Ten Commandments and Ben-Hur.