“Who Knew Zorro Was So Important?”—Catherine Zeta-Jones Looks Back at Her Life In Movies in Bazaar’s “Building Character” Series
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Catherine Zeta-Jones Looks Back at Her Most Iconic Screen Roles

The Oscar winner revisits pivotal career moments, from her breakout in 'The Mask of Zorro' to 'Wednesday.'

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 2 min read

Catherine Zeta-Jones is taking a stroll down memory lane, unpacking the defining screen transformations that shaped her Hollywood journey. In a newly released career retrospective video, the Oscar-winning Welsh performer delved into behind-the-scenes memories from some of her most celebrated roles, examining how specific projects altered the course of her life in entertainment. One particular turning point still stands out vividly for the star: her breakout showcase as Elena Montero in the 1998 swashbuckler *The Mask of Zorro*. Reflecting on how the high-energy adventure launched her into global stardom, the actress humorously questioned the lasting cultural footprint of that pivotal project, asking, "Who knew Zorro was so important?"

Which iconic roles did Catherine Zeta-Jones revisit?

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The deep-dive conversation did not stop at her signature swashbuckling classic. Zeta-Jones traced her dynamic creative path from musical theater roots to modern television juggernauts, detailing what it takes to build authentic characters across completely distinct genres. Among the titles highlighted was *Cabaret*, the legendary stage production that showcased her early theatrical prowess and sharpened the performance skills that would later define her award-winning work. She also reflected on connecting with an entirely new generation of viewers through *Wednesday*. Stepping into the elegant, macabre role of Morticia Addams for the smash streaming series, Zeta-Jones embraced an established pop-culture figure while infusing her own distinct presence into the beloved matriarch. The contrast between her early stage.

Catherine Zeta-Jones Hunts Assasins in Amazon Thriller 'Kill Jackie'
Catherine Zeta-Jones Hunts Assasins in Amazon Thriller 'Kill Jackie'

What makes her screen retrospective so significant?

By walking through her most recognizable projects, the actress offered fans a rare peek behind the curtain of an enduring showbiz run. Her journey from local theater productions to top-billing marquee releases remains a prime example of navigating international fame while continuously evolving across film, television, and stage. Whether executing swordplay in a classic period piece, performing under stage lights, or delivering deadpan wit in a modern gothic hit, Zeta-Jones continues to treat every character as a distinct craft. Her candid reflections demonstrate that even major stars are often surprised by which cinematic moments end up defining a lasting legacy.

The photos · 5

“Who Knew Zorro Was So Important?”—Catherine Zeta-Jones Looks Back at Her Life In Movies in Bazaar’s “Building Character” Series
How Catherine Zeta-Jones, 57, Maintains Her Lush, Shiny Hair
Catherine Zeta-Jones Hunts Assasins in Amazon Thriller 'Kill Jackie'
Catherine Zeta-Jones and her kids
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas pose for a selfie with their children Carys and Dylan in front of an ancient stone wall.

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Which projects did Catherine Zeta-Jones discuss in her retrospective?
Zeta-Jones looked back on several key roles across her career, notably highlighting The Mask of Zorro, the musical Cabaret, and the series Wednesday.
What did Catherine Zeta-Jones say about The Mask of Zorro?
Reflecting on the film that helped launch her international career, the actress marveled at its legacy, asking, "Who knew Zorro was so important?"