Skip to content
Home » Cameron Diaz and Ed Burns Reflect on The Holiday and Life Beyond the Screen

Cameron Diaz and Ed Burns Reflect on The Holiday and Life Beyond the Screen

As the holiday season brings festive cheer, audiences turn to timeless classics like The Holiday. Nearly two decades after its release, the film remains a staple in holiday movie marathons. Stars Cameron Diaz and Ed Burns recently shared insights into their experiences with the film and their lives beyond the screen.

Table of Contents

cameron diaz

Ed Burns on The Holiday and His “Punch” Scene

In The Holiday, Ed Burns played Ethan, Amanda’s (Cameron Diaz) unfaithful boyfriend. His character’s cheating confession sets the story in motion, leading Amanda to a transformative journey in England.

Burns addressed a long-standing fan query in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE: Did Diaz really punch him during their dramatic breakup scene?

“She didn’t. It was a bit of movie magic,” the 56-year-old actor clarified, laughing. He added, “I always know when it’s close to Christmas because people start mentioning The Holiday.”

Burns noted how his character, despite his flaws, was integral to the storyline. “If Ethan hadn’t cheated, Amanda wouldn’t have met Graham [Jude Law], and Iris [Kate Winslet] wouldn’t have met Miles [Jack Black].”

Cameron Diaz’s Secrets to Staying Youthful

At 52, Cameron Diaz still captures attention with her radiant appearance, leading many to wonder about her anti-aging secrets. In a previous interview with British Vogue, Diaz shared her simple yet effective tips:

  • Regular exercise
  • A healthy diet
  • Staying hydrated
  • Plenty of laughter

However, Diaz humorously attributed one unconventional factor to her youthful glow: “Lots of sex. It’s healthy, it’s natural, it’s what we are here to do!” While her remark was partly in jest, scientific studies back her claim. Dermatologists suggest that the estrogen boost from intimacy can improve skin elasticity and promote collagen production, resulting in a youthful appearance.

As for cosmetic enhancements, Diaz remains open-minded. “I’m not doing anything right now,” she said, “but I’ll never say never to anything.”

Ed Burns’ Latest Project: Millers in Marriage

Burns has shifted his focus from acting to writing and directing. His latest film, Millers in Marriage, explores midlife challenges faced by three siblings in their 50s. Inspired by real-life conversations with his wife, Christy Turlington, the film delves into themes of marriage, identity, and life after parenting.

“One idea I explored was, ‘How do couples redefine their marriage once their kids leave the nest?’” Burns said. “It’s like a shark—if it isn’t moving forward, it dies. Couples have to find new ways to grow together.”

The film also features Benjamin Bratt as a rock journalist grappling with aging out of his fast-paced career. Burns noted, “A lot of my peers in the arts are questioning if they still have something to say. That inspired Johnny’s character.”

A Sequel to The Brothers McMullen

Burns is also revisiting his roots with a sequel to The Brothers McMullen, his 1995 breakout film about Irish Catholic brothers navigating life and love. The sequel, set to begin filming in April, will explore the brothers’ lives 30 years later.

“We haven’t started casting yet, but I’ll definitely be in it,” Burns confirmed. The original film, which he wrote, directed, and starred in at 27, catapulted him to fame.

The Legacy of The Holiday

As The Holiday continues to warm hearts each year, both Diaz and Burns reflect on its enduring appeal. For Diaz, the film represents a cherished chapter in her career. For Burns, it’s a reminder of how pivotal moments—both on and off-screen—shape our lives.

This holiday season, as the film returns to screens, fans can revel in its charm while appreciating the personal journeys of its stars. Whether it’s redefining relationships or embracing change, Diaz and Burns offer a poignant reminder of life’s transformative magic.