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Entertainment • Actor

Catherine Zeta-Jones

Catherine Zeta-Jones is a Welsh actress known for film, television, and stage work.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Catherine Zeta-Jones is a Welsh actress known for film, television, and stage work. She won an Academy Award for *Chicago* and a Tony Award for *A Little Night Music*, and was appointed CBE for her film and humanitarian work.

Early life and background

Catherine Zeta-Jones was born in Swansea, Wales, on 25 September 1969. She began performing at a young age and had early experience in stage work before moving into television and film.

Film career

She gained international attention through major Hollywood films, including *The Mask of Zorro*, *Traffic*, and *Chicago*. Her performance in *Chicago* brought her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Stage work

Beyond screen acting, Zeta-Jones has worked on stage and won a Tony Award for her role in *A Little Night Music*. Her stage background is part of her broader reputation as a performer across media.

Honours and personal life

Her honours include a BAFTA, an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and appointment as CBE. She has been married to actor Michael Douglas since 2000.

Key facts

  • Catherine Zeta-Jones was born in Swansea, Wales, on 25 September 1969.
  • She is best known for roles in *Chicago*, *The Mask of Zorro*, and *Traffic*.
  • She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for *Chicago*.
  • She won a Tony Award for her stage performance in *A Little Night Music*.
  • She was appointed CBE in 2010 and has been married to Michael Douglas since 2000.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Catherine Zeta-Jones?
She is a Welsh actress known for film and stage roles, including award-winning performances in *Chicago* and *A Little Night Music*.
Where was Catherine Zeta-Jones born?
She was born in Swansea, Wales.
What is Catherine Zeta-Jones best known for?
She is best known for films such as *The Mask of Zorro*, *Traffic*, and *Chicago*.
What major awards has she won?
She has won an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and a Tony Award.
Is Catherine Zeta-Jones married?
Yes. She is married to actor Michael Douglas.
What does CBE mean in her title?
CBE stands for Commander of the Order of the British Empire, an honour she received in 2010.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Zeta-Jones
    Supports: Birth date, Welsh nationality, awards, and CBE appointment.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Catherine-Zeta-Jones
    Supports: Birth place, nationality, key films, Academy Award, and CBE.
  3. BBC Wales — https://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/arts/sites/catherine-zeta-jones/pages/biography.shtml
    Supports: Early life, birth place, and career beginnings.
  4. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/actors/catherine-zeta-jones
    Supports: Key films, Academy Award-winning role, Tony Award, and marriage to Michael Douglas.