Michael Douglas Turns 82 – A Special Friendship with Art Garfunkel
On September 25, Michael Douglas celebrates his 82nd birthday. For decades, the American actor has been one of the most prominent figures in international cinema. Beyond their professional worlds, he and Art Garfunkel have also shared a close personal friendship that has continued over many years and has been reflected in special moments in their public lives.
Both are closely connected to New York City and have shared connections within the city’s cultural and social circles over the years. Art Garfunkel was born and raised in New York and, alongside his musical career, has long had connections to the worlds of film, literature, and the arts. Michael Douglas, too, has a longstanding connection to the city, both through his career and his presence in New York’s cultural life.
One particularly memorable moment in their friendship took place in November 2000. On November 18, 2000, Michael Douglas married Catherine Zeta-Jones at The Plaza Hotel in New York City. Art Garfunkel was among the guests at the wedding celebration.
During the festivities, Michael Douglas personally asked his friend Art Garfunkel to perform “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Garfunkel accepted the request, making the song—one of the most recognized performances of his musical career—a special part of the wedding celebration. Other well-known musicians also performed that evening, including Gladys Knight, Jimmy Buffett, Stephen Stills, Bonnie Tyler, and Mick Hucknall.
The moment at The Plaza Hotel reflects the personal connection between Michael Douglas and Art Garfunkel: a social celebration became a memorable musical moment through a personal request from a friend. The performance remains documented as part of Art Garfunkel’s career chronology.
On Michael Douglas’ 82nd birthday, this memory offers a look back at a special evening in New York and a friendship reflected in moments like this one.
