Split with Catherine Zeta-Jones is 'temporary' says Michael Douglas as he denies marriage crisis

Michael Douglas has said he and wife Catherine Zeta-Jones are on a "temporary separation", but there is no "crisis" in the couple's 13-year marriage.

When asked about the split while on the promotional trail in Germany, he replied: "I have a crisis at home? No, I think the press has a crisis. We are fine. My wife and I are fine.

 "We take a temporary separation - but the press, it gives you stuff to write about."

The star made the comments while unveiling his Liberace biopic Behind The Candelabra in Berlin.

News of the couple's split was confirmed last week, when it emerged they had decided to take a break.

A spokesman for the Zorro actress said: "Catherine and Michael are taking some time apart to evaluate and work on their marriage."

Neither Michael, 68, or Catherine, 43, have filed for divorce or taken steps towards a legal separation, according to sources.

They haven't been photographed together since April, attending events solo and holidaying separately with their children Dylan, 13, and ten-year-old Carys.

The stress of both of their struggles with health "has taken a toll on their marriage," says a friend of the Hollywood stars.

Michael was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2010 while Welsh actress Catherine has suffered with bipolar II disorder for some time.

The Wall Street star underwent six months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy before being given the all clear in January 2011.