Kiefer Sutherland has revealed the transformative moment when he first grasped the magnitude of his father Donald Sutherland’s acting legacy, per bbc.com. The younger Sutherland’s candid admission comes as part of a BBC Two special Lives Well Lived, offering a rare glimpse into their complex father-son relationship.
At age 17, after moving to Los Angeles to pursue his own acting career, Kiefer experienced an enlightening marathon viewing of his father’s films, courtesy of a friend’s extensive VHS collection. This impromptu film festival proved to be a turning point in their relationship. “When I see his work, it’s just astounding,” Kiefer reflects, describing the emotional phone call that followed his discovery.
The conversation that ensued became a cornerstone moment for both actors. “I didn’t realise how special and great you are as an actor,” Kiefer told his father, who responded with characteristic warmth, nearly moving to tears: “Well, how could you? You were just a boy.”
Their professional paths would eventually intersect in the 2016 western Forsaken, where art imitates life as they portray an estranged father and son. Despite their characters’ on-screen conflict, the real-life collaboration proved to be a cherished experience for both Sutherlands.
Donald Sutherland, who passed away in June 2024 at age 88, left behind an extraordinary legacy spanning over 200 screen roles. From his unexpected break in The Dirty Dozen to acclaimed performances in classics like M*A*S*H and Don’t Look Now, his journey from a small Canadian fishing village to Hollywood legend exemplified the power of pursuing one’s dreams.
For Kiefer, his father’s legacy lives on through film, offering a unique comfort in grief. “I’m very lucky as a son to be able to throw on a film and get to see my dad,” he reflects, highlighting the extraordinary intersection of their personal and professional lives that has become a lasting testament to their bond.
- Featured image: Donald Sutherland with his son and fellow actor Kiefer, after a 2006 awards ceremony in Los Angeles/Getty Images
