Michael Douglas and Sharon Stone were once one of Hollywood's most iconic and high-profile couples. They met in 1987, when Stone was cast opposite Douglas in the hit film "Basic Instinct." They began dating shortly after, and in 1998, they tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Santa Barbara, California.
However, despite the initial spark between the two actors, their relationship was not without its fair share of ups and downs. In 2003, after nearly 15 years together, Douglas and Stone announced that they were separating.
The news of their breakup was met with shock and surprise by the media and fans alike, as many had considered them to be one of Hollywood's strongest and most enduring couples. So what led to the end of their relationship, and how did they move on after their breakup?
One of the primary reasons for the couple's breakup was the strain caused by Douglas' battle with cancer. In August 2010, Douglas was diagnosed with stage 4 throat cancer, and he underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment in the months that followed. Stone was by his side throughout his treatment, but the experience took a toll on their relationship.
In an interview with Harper's Bazaar, Stone admitted that the cancer diagnosis was a "huge challenge" for the couple. "It was a very difficult time, and it put a lot of strain on our relationship," she said. "But we were able to get through it together, and I think it made us stronger in the end."
However, despite their efforts to work through the challenges, Douglas and Stone ultimately decided to go their separate ways. In a statement to the press, they said, "We have mutually decided to separate at this time. Our primary concern remains the well-being of our children, and we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time."
After their breakup, Douglas and Stone remained amicable and co-parented their two children, Dylan and Carys. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2010, Douglas praised Stone as a "great mother" and said that they had "a very good relationship."
In the years following their breakup, both Douglas and Stone moved on and found new love. Douglas remarried in 2000, to actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, and the couple has two children together. Stone, meanwhile, has dated several high-profile men, including actor Martin Mica and model Christian Slater.
Despite the end of their relationship, Douglas and Stone will always be remembered as one of Hollywood's most iconic couples. They may have gone their separate ways, but they remain united in their commitment to co-parenting their children and maintaining a positive relationship for their sake.
