At 98-years-old, Kirk Douglas says he’s been lucky in the two most important areas of his life: “My career and my wife,” he exclusively shares with Closer.

And now the legendary actor, who has appeared in more than 80 films during his 60-year career, is sharing his fortune — to the tune of $80 million.

kirk douglas and wife anne

Kirk and is wife, Anne, in May 2008.

In 1955, Kirk’s wife, Anne — then in charge of bookkeeping of his production company, Bryna — started a “little pension fund” for the couple and their employees. When she recently told Kirk that their share was now worth $80 million, “I was excited — more to give away,” he says. “And that’s exactly what we’re doing.”

RELATED: Kirk Douglas Shares Secrets Behind His 60-Year Marriage

Of course, spreading the wealth is nothing new for the longtime philanthropists. “While I never made the astronomical sums that stars have become used to today, I did very well,” says Kirk, who has starred in such iconic films as Spartacus and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. “Anne and I always felt an obligation — as well as a joy — in sharing our good fortune with worthy causes.”

What makes them most happy, says Kirk, is helping “the communities we love, particularly in the areas of women’s and children’s health, education and the arts.”

To read the full story on Kirk and Anne, pick up the new issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now!