Catherine trained at the Hazel Johnson School of Dance, and first took to the footlights as lead role in the musical Annie at the Grand Theatre Swansea.

She attended Dumbarton House School and once had her dinner money pinched by fellow pupil Rob Brydon Uncle Bryn in Gavin & Stacey. She went on to study at The Arts Educational school in Chiswick and a 3 year training course in musical theatre in Londons West End. After performing many roles in dance theatre and minor parts on TV, Catherine got the part of the eldest daughter Mariette in The Darling Buds of May along side David Jason & Pam Ferris. She went on to make a number of TV films working with such actors as John Cleese, Eric Idle, Tim Curry, Rick Moranis & George C Scott.

Her first big break was to star in the block busting film The Mask of Zoro, alongside Antonio Banderas & Sir Anthony Hopkins.

Catherine, married Michael Douglas on November 18th 2000 and they have 2 children Dylan & Carys. Throughout her film career she has received many acclaims, awards and nominations for lead and supporting rolls including Golden Globe, BAFTA, Screen Actors Guild Award and has received the CBE.