15 Fun Facts About Catherine Zeta-Jones

Catherine Zeta-Jones has been dazzling audiences for decades with her charm, grace, and powerhouse performances.

From Chicago to The Mask of Zorro, the Welsh beauty has proven she’s more than just a Hollywood star; she’s a total icon. But beyond the red carpets and awards, there’s so much more to know about her. Here are 15 fun facts that might just surprise you.

1. She owes her dance lessons to bingo

Catherine’s incredible dance skills can actually be traced back to a stroke of luck. Her parents once won a £100,000 bingo prize and used it to send her to dance and ballet lessons. That win turned out to be life-changing, setting her on the path to stardom.

2. She left school at 15 to chase her dream

While most teens were studying for exams, Catherine was already on stage. She left school at just 15 to join a West End production, determined to make acting her career.

3. Her first big break came with The Mask of Zorro

In 1998, Catherine became a global sensation starring alongside Antonio Banderas. The film’s success catapulted her into Hollywood’s elite, and she hasn’t slowed down since.

4. She shares a birthday with her husband, Michael Douglas

It’s a match made in the stars, literally. Both Catherine and Michael Douglas were born on September 25, though he’s 25 years her senior.

5. Her wedding was a 12-hour party

When the couple tied the knot in 2000 at New York’s Plaza Hotel, the celebration lasted a full 12 hours. Talk about stamina!

6. She’s a big fan of all the best bingo games

Growing up in Wales, Catherine loved playing bingo with her family, and that hasn’t changed. She’s known to host games at home, calling it a fun way to bring everyone together.

7. She once released a pop single

Before dazzling audiences in Chicago, Catherine dropped a song in the ‘90s called In the Arms of Love, which even charted in the UK.

8. She was named after both her grandmothers

Her elegant double-barreled name, Catherine Zeta-Jones, comes from her grandmothers, Catherine Fair and Zeta Jones.

9. She’s a serious golfer

Catherine’s competitive streak shines on the golf course. She plays multiple times a week and has even beaten Michael in a few rounds.

10. Elizabeth Taylor inspired her signature look

Her love of bold eyeliner comes from none other than Elizabeth Taylor. Catherine once said she was obsessed with the late icon’s violet eyes and dramatic lashes.

11. She’s not just an actress, she’s also a businesswoman

Through her lifestyle brand, Casa Zeta-Jones, she’s launched everything from vegan sneakers to luxe homeware, proving she’s as savvy as she is stylish.

12. She carries a karaoke machine to movie sets

Catherine has admitted she brings a portable karaoke setup with her when filming. Her go-to tracks? Anything classic and sing-along-worthy.

13. She’s open about her mental health

In 2011, Catherine revealed she had been treated for Bipolar II disorder, inspiring others by speaking candidly about her journey.

14. She’s one of the most decorated actresses of her generation

From an Academy Award to a BAFTA and SAG Award, Catherine’s trophy shelf is nothing short of impressive.

15. She still loves life’s simple pleasures

Despite her global fame, Catherine remains grounded, whether that’s playing bingo with family, cooking at home, or golfing under the Welsh sun.

From her early days in Swansea to conquering Hollywood, Catherine Zeta-Jones continues to shine with timeless charm and unstoppable drive.