Kiefer Sutherland, known for his charismatic smile, black sunglasses, dark jacket, and collared shirt, is a celebrated actor who gained fame through films such as Stand by Me, The Lost Boys, and Flatliners. He later cemented his legacy with the long-running TV series 24. Read more on torontoski.
Who is Kiefer Sutherland?
Kiefer Sutherland is best known for his roles in Stand by Me, Young Guns, and Flatliners, as well as the TV series 24. The son of Canadian actor Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas, Kiefer followed in his parents’ footsteps, rising to fame in the 1980s with performances in critically acclaimed films such as Stand by Me, The Lost Boys, and Young Guns. His success continued with iconic roles in Flatliners, A Few Good Men, and The Three Musketeers.
Sutherland’s television career peaked with his portrayal of Jack Bauer in the hit espionage drama 24. In recent years, he has taken on lead roles in TV shows like Touch and Designated Survivor while also venturing into country music with two albums.
Early Life and His Famous Father
Kiefer Sutherland, born William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland on December 21, 1966, in London, experienced a transformative childhood when his parents divorced. He and his mother moved from Los Angeles to Toronto, where he was raised with limited contact with his father, usually visiting him during Christmas or summer vacations.
It wasn’t until his teenage years that Kiefer truly understood his father’s fame after watching his movies. Despite their physical distance, Kiefer and Donald shared a strong bond. The two Emmy winners eventually worked together for the first time in the 2016 western Forsaken, portraying a strained father-son relationship opposite to their real-life connection.
Sutherland’s early education included attending a Catholic boarding school in Canada until the age of 15.
The Book: Kiefer Sutherland: The Biography
Kiefer Sutherland: The Biography delves into the actor’s life, exploring his path from childhood, through his parents’ divorce, and his struggles, to his remarkable achievements in Hollywood. Despite growing up as the child of celebrity parents, Kiefer carved his own path, making mistakes and surprising decisions along the way.
The biography examines his acting career, which includes nearly 60 films, with his role as Jack Bauer in 24 earning him global acclaim. It also covers his involvement in the Brat Pack, his departure from Hollywood to pursue rodeo adventures, and his complex personal relationships, such as his canceled engagement to Julia Roberts. Written by bestselling author Laura Jackson, the book offers a comprehensive look at Sutherland’s multifaceted life.
Films and TV Shows
Sutherland’s acting journey began on stage, later leading to his film debut in 1983’s Max Dugan Returns, where he appeared alongside his father. He gained recognition in coming-of-age films like The Bay Boy (1985), Stand by Me, and the vampire thriller The Lost Boys (1987). He joined a star-studded cast in the western Young Guns (1988) and founded Stillwater Productions around this time.
- Flatliners and A Few Good Men
In 1990, Sutherland starred in the psychological drama Flatliners alongside Kevin Bacon, William Baldwin, and Julia Roberts. His career soared further with A Few Good Men (1992), where he shared the screen with Tom Cruise. Sutherland later led the ensemble cast of The Three Musketeers (1993) and made his directorial debut with the TV drama Last Light that same year.
- Dark City and Ground Control
The late 1990s showcased Sutherland’s affinity for dark, intense psychological films like The Last Days of Frankie the Fly (1997) and Dark City. He directed his second TV movie, Woman Wanted (1999), and appeared in the thriller Ground Control.
- Jack Bauer in 24
In 2001, Sutherland took on the role of Jack Bauer in the iconic series 24, which earned him Emmy and Golden Globe awards. The show became a television sensation, running for multiple seasons and culminating in 24: Redemption (2008). The series remains the longest-running American espionage drama in TV history.
Sutherland reprised his role in 24: Live Another Day in 2014, receiving widespread acclaim.
- Touch and Designated Survivor
In 2012, Sutherland starred in Touch as Martin Bohm, a father discovering his son’s extraordinary abilities. After the series concluded, he returned to television in 2016 with Designated Survivor, portraying an unlikely president thrust into power following a catastrophic attack. The show aired three seasons, with Netflix producing the final one.
Music and Personal Life
After decades on screen, Sutherland embraced his passion for music, releasing his debut country album, Down in a Hole, in August 2016 through his own label, Ironworks. His second album, Reckless & Me, followed in April 2019, showcasing his dedication to his musical craft.
Sutherland’s personal life has also been eventful. In 2017, he got engaged to actress and model Cindy Vela. Although the couple has yet to marry, they remain together.
Sutherland’s past relationships include a marriage to Camelia Kath from 1987 to 1990, with whom he shares a daughter, Sarah Jude. He was famously engaged to Julia Roberts, though their wedding was called off. He later married Kelly Winn, but their relationship officially ended in 2004 after separating in 1999.
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