Michael Douglas: Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Bipolar II Was ‘Outed’ During Treatment

Michael Douglas says wife Catherine Zeta-Jones went public with her bipolar II disorder after she was “outed.”

“I must say, Catherine’s being quite open about it because she was outed, you know,” the 66-year-old actor said in a candid interview on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” which airs today. “She went to go get some help and some other patient probably in there said, ‘Hey, you won’t believe who’s in here now.’ And, so, once that happens, I think she felt best to kind of get out the story.”

The big screen veteran confessed that he and his family have weathered a great deal in the last year.

“My oldest son is in federal prison, my ex-wife is suing me, and I got cancer. It’s kind of hard for the wife to say, ‘I’m depressed,’” Michael told Oprah.

However, now the actor said his wife is doing well and back at work.

“She’s great. She’s shooting a movie down in Louisiana, and I think she’s relieved she has a better understanding [of bipolar II],” he said of his Oscar-winning wife who is currently filming the sports dramedy “Playing the Field” with Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel and Uma Thurman. She also recently signed on the for the star-studded musical “Rock of Ages.”

As for his own health – the actor told Access Hollywood in January that he successfully beat throat cancer – Michael gave Oprah an update, saying the cancer has not returned.

“This particular type of cancer has a good record of not coming back,” he explained. “But it can. So for the first year, I’ve got to go every month and get checked.”

The actor said he’s already received a clean bill of health this month, adding, “I have [been checked.] I’m cool.”

Through it all, Michael said his recent struggles have provided him with a new perspective on life.

“I know that I’m much, much closer to my friends and family,” he said, getting emotional. “I have a much deeper appreciation of my family and friends.”

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