Hollywood legend Michael Douglas recently opened up about his once-close friendship with former President Donald Trump, a relationship that has since drastically shifted. The “Wall Street” star, known for his iconic performances in films from the ’80s and ’90s, reflected on the unexpected evolution of Trump’s personality, as well as his own political disillusionment following the 2016 election. Here’s a look at how their friendship evolved and why Douglas feels Trump’s presidency marked a turning point.
A Hollywood Star and a Business Mogul: Friends on the Golf Course
Douglas, a longtime golf enthusiast, revealed in an interview with Tina Brown that he and Trump used to golf together often, back when Trump was primarily known as a real estate mogul and television personality. Describing Trump as “charming” and “a golfer,” Douglas shared how their love for the game initially drew them together.
“I know him. [He was] charming, he’s a golfer, I’m a golfer, we played golf together. [He had a] good sense of humor,” Douglas recalled.
At the time, Trump’s sense of humor and affable personality appealed to Douglas, leading the two to build a casual but enjoyable friendship on and off the course.
A Shift in Perspective: The Trump Presidency Changes Everything
Fast-forward to 2016, and Douglas’s feelings about Trump had changed dramatically. Like many Americans, Douglas watched as Trump, now president, became a polarizing figure. Douglas admitted that he initially hoped Trump would govern as a centrist, believing that his friend would “move more toward the center.” However, his expectations were soon dashed, especially as the Mueller investigation into Russian interference cast a shadow over Trump’s entire presidency.
“I think once the Mueller investigation started, which has been [since] the beginning of his presidency, he’s been shadowed with what he knows and where this is all going to go,” Douglas explained.
Douglas’s perception of Trump had shifted from admiration to disappointment, finding his friend’s actions increasingly concerning.
Election Disappointment: Douglas Expresses Frustration on Bill Maher
Michael Douglas didn’t hold back when discussing his frustration with the 2020 election results on “Real Time with Bill Maher.” Like many celebrities, he was vocal about his feelings, especially when the razor-thin margin of the election left him and others on edge. Douglas revealed that he was stunned by the outcome, mentioning how he felt betrayed by the outcome, despite polling data indicating a close race.
“The other thing I just have to share, after Tuesday night, Wednesday morning, [I’m] just so pissed at this razor-thin race,” he said, recounting his feelings during the show.
In a moment of irony, Douglas shared that he went straight to the golf course the morning after the election to clear his mind, managing to score a hole-in-one during his round. For him, golf remained a comforting constant in the wake of political turmoil.
The Changing Legacy of a Friendship
Reflecting on the two men’s journey, it’s clear that the bond they shared on the golf course now stands as a relic of a different time in both their lives. Douglas’s remarks highlight a relationship that, like many others, was altered by politics and personal choices. Once a friend drawn to Trump’s charisma and humor, Douglas now openly critiques his former golf buddy’s legacy, offering a unique perspective on the impact of Trump’s presidency on those who once stood in his circle.
As fans of both Douglas’s acting career and followers of political drama continue to follow his insights, one thing is certain: this story of Hollywood friendship turned political rift continues to capture the public’s attention.