There are certain days that we will always remember in our lives. They include the day that our children are born, the day we retire and the day we get married. When you reach a certain age, however, every day is a day to remember and Kirk Douglas has certainly reached that age in his life. He turned 102 years old recently and his family is celebrating the milestone.
Kirk Douglas was born Issur Danielovitch in 1916 and over the course of his career, he starred in many Hollywood movies. He is considered to be one of the oldest living stars of the silver screen from the golden age of the film industry. Another famous actress who shares that status is Olivia de Havilland, who turned 102 in July.
A number of Kirk’s children followed him into the industry. Joel, his son, became a film producer and Peter is both a film and TV producer. Out of his four sons, Michael Douglas is probably the one that most of us know more than any other. He has had a successful and award-winning career of his own.
The Douglas family is very close and they came together to celebrate this special day. This included his son Michael, his daughter-in-law Catherine Zeta Jones and four grandchildren.
Kirk Douglas was born Issur Danielovitch on December 9, 1916.
He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before he became an actor in Hollywood.
His first wife, Dana Dille and he shared two children. Joel was born in 1947 and Michael in 1944.
In 1954, he married Anne Buydens and they had two more children, Peter, born in 1955 and Eric in 1958.
Kirk and Anne are one of Hollywood’s longest lasting marriages.
Michael Douglas, Kirk’s oldest son also had a Hollywood career that is quite notable.
Kirk is close to Michael’s wife, Catherine Zeta Jones.
Catherine shared a heartfelt message on Instagram to celebrate the day.
“Happy 102nd birthday to the most beautiful man. We love you Kirk,” she wrote. She also shared a video montage of photos and stills from home movies.
Carys, who is the 15-year-old daughter of Michael and Catherine is also seen in the video playing the piano and singing a song by Christina Aguilera.
She shares a message for her grandpa:
“102 years young,” she wrote alongside an on-set photo of Kirk. “To my inspiration, my pappy. I can’t put into words how much you mean to me. Happy birthday, I love you.”
Their 18-year-old son, Dylan, also went on social media to say hi to his grandfather. He wrote: “Happy birthday Pappy 102 years!!! Though you are adored by millions, my love for you is by far the greatest. Love you forever and always.”
Cameron, who is Michael’s oldest son from a previous marriage also shared a message for his grandfather: ““Happy birthday to a gentleman’s gentleman, with a true heart of gold. We love you Pappy! #102,” Cameron wrote
On Facebook, Michael shared a montage video of his own showing his dad in some iconic roles and some family snapshots.
“Happy 102nd Birthday Dad. You’re my hero and I love you! #KirkDouglas #102 #Birthday #MyHero #FathersLove,” he wrote.
You can tell that this legendary actor is loved by his family.