Catherine Zeta-Jones shares heartbreaking news as fans show overwhelming support

Catherine Zeta-Jones has taken to Instagram to share some heartbreaking news with fans, who were quick to show their support. The Welsh-born Hollywood star, perhaps best known for her roles in Chicago and The Mask of Zorro, settled in the US with her husband Michael Douglas. But while she might now live on a different continent to some of her family members, Catherine's loved ones are never far from her thoughts, especially in this challenging time.

Catherine revealed on Instagram that her cousin Gemma passed away last month, as she shared a heartfelt tribute to her. Posting a picture that appeared to show a spotlight shining down, followed by a photograph of Gemma herself, Catherine was clearly heartbroken.

In her caption she wrote, ‘On February 13th my beautiful cousin Gemma left us in this world. She was truly a ‘Gem’ to us all and she was truly an extraordinary mother to her five children. Tomorrow she will take her final resting place. Join my family and I and leave a light on for Gemma tonight. 🙏🏻🙏🏻 ‘

Catherine’s Instagram followers quickly commented, showing their overwhelming support for the actress at this difficult time. 

‘Very sorry for your loss. May she Rest In Peace 🙏 ‘ one wrote. 

While another shared, ‘I am lighting a candle for Gemma this is the candle my grandmother and my aunt jo would light 💙🦋 I am sending love and condolences to you and your family’. 

And a fellow Instagram follower wrote, ‘My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏🏽’

The ongoing effects of the pandemic have made the importance of family and friends clearer than ever before to so many. Catherine will no doubt be supported through this sad time by her husband Michael and their children, daughter Carys and son Dylan.

Last year, Catherine opened up to Lorraine’s Ross King about the previous months during lockdown, explaining that she hadn’t been able to see her parents who live in Wales. 

She disclosed, “That’s what’s been tough for me in lockdown, being away from mam and dad, thank God we have the ability to see each other [via video calls].

“We all live such distanced lives and it takes a time like this to appreciate those who are close to you.”