‘Brilliant’: Hollywood power couple’s classy act for F1 icon at Spanish Grand Prix

Fans have praised a Hollywood power couple after they went out of their way to give a touching tribute to a Formula One icon.

Michael Douglas praises Martin Brundle.

Finally, some celebrities who appreciate Martin Brundle for the Formula One icon he is.

The legendary F1 commentator was singled out for praise by Hollywood actors Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones in a touching moment at the F1 Spanish Grand Prix.

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Brundle was doing his customary pre-race grid walk ahead of Sunday night’s race when he ambled up to Douglas and Zeta-Jones, who were at the race with their son Dylan.

He began: “Michael, Catherine — two amazing actors of course”, before Douglas interrupted.

“Can I just stop you for a second to say what an excellent job you do, weekend in, week out” Douglas said.

“I’m so impressed, both here in the pits and your colour commentary. You’re amazing!”

A clearly chuffed Brundle replied: “I really appreciate it, you’ve made my day. Thank you very much!”

Pure class from Catherine Zeta-Jones and Martin Brundle. (Photo by ANDREJ ISAKOVIC / AFP)

Zeta-Jones echoed her husband’s sentiment, applauding Brundle for his work in commentary.

“I used to watch F1 with my dad, in the Nigel Mansell years,” the Oscar-winning actor said.

“So to come here and have experience with my family, it really is a family event for us – we love it.

“And I second Michael – your work, what you do, you really make it for everybody back home.”

“Thank you, that’s really kind of you,” Brundle said.

Viewers praised the Hollywood power couple for their classy tribute, and said it was long overdue recognition for Brundle’s work behind the microphone.

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones showing the respect to Martin Brundle just now on the grid. 👏👏 #SpanishGP#SkyF1pic.twitter.com/L1wjbv82KC

— A... Fan (@RingGeneral) June 4, 2023

Catching up on last night’s F1. How good was Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones showing the love for Martin Brundle. Brilliant all round! pic.twitter.com/Ks7JsOiJIY

— Daniel Davini (@davvers605) June 5, 2023

I'm impressed that Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones didn't have an armada of security around them. And then they showered Martin Brundle with great respect and compliments. THAT'S how it should be done. #SpanishGP

— Jad Hamizan (@jadhamizan712) June 4, 2023

Michael Douglas putting the respect on Brundle’s name 👌 #SpanishGP

— Mark Pryde (@MarkPryde) June 4, 2023

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones saying how legendary Martin Brundle is awhhh love it ✨🥺

I’m so glad they complimented him. 💕

— Ray ☺️ ✨ (@acompleteace) June 4, 2023

The interaction was a far cry from being snubbed by the likes of Serena Williams and Megan Thee Stallion, and a frosty encounter with a Red Bull team member at last week’s Monaco Grand Prix.

As Brundle looked to grab Red Bull team principal Christian Horner for a quick word for the race in Monaco, a Red Bull staff member blocked his path and wouldn’t let Brundle through.

“No, nuh-uh. I’m going to get in f***ing s**t, dude,” the Red Bull man said in Brundle’s direction, prompting a Sky Sports producer to tell him: “We’re live! We’re live!”

Brundle then added: “Yeah sorry for the language there everybody.”

Brundle has a lengthy catalogue of iconic and chaotic F1 grid walks.

Martin Brundle (right) is a legend of F1 commentary. (Photo by Peter Fox/Getty Images)

Last year, he mistook NBA No. 1 draft pick Paolo Banchero for NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes.

And at this year’s Miami Grand Prix, it was absolute bedlam as three-time F1 world champion Jackie Stewart evaded security to grab Roger Federer for a 10-second chat with Brundle.

As for the race in Barcelona, Max Verstappen won the Spanish Grand Prix in dominant fashion to extend his lead in the drivers’ championship to 53 points.

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell finished second and third for Mercedes’ first double podium of the season, while both McLaren drivers finished out of the top 10.

The F1 season now heads to Canada for the Montreal Grand Prix which takes place on June 19 at 4am (AEST).