Actor Donald Sutherland passes away at 88
Canadian actor Donald Sutherland, known for his roles in films such as *The Hunger Games* and *Don't Look Now*, has died at the age of 88 after a long illness. His son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, announced the news, saying: "With a heavy heart, I share that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I believe he was one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad, or ugly, he loved what he did and did what he loved. One can never ask for more than that. A life well-lived."
Sutherland had nearly 200 credits to his name over a career spanning more than half a century. The announcement of his passing was met with an outpouring of support and tributes.
Actor Rob Lowe, who worked with Sutherland in the miniseries *Salem's Lot*, described him as "one of our greatest actors." He wrote on Twitter, "It was my honor to work with him many years ago, and I will never forget his charisma and ability."
Cary Elwes, a co-star in the 2001 television film *Uprising*, expressed his sorrow, saying he was "devastated" by Sutherland's death. He sent a message to Kiefer on Instagram, saying, "Our hearts are breaking for you. So grateful to have known and worked with him. Sending our love."
Born in New Brunswick, Canada, Donald Sutherland began his career as a radio news reporter before traveling to London in 1957 to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. He started with small roles in British film and television, eventually gaining recognition with high-profile roles in war films such as 1967's *The Dirty Dozen*, and *Kelly's Heroes* and *M*A*S*H* in 1970.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reminisced about feeling "deeply, deeply star-struck" upon meeting Sutherland. "My thoughts go out to Kiefer and the entire Sutherland family, as well as all Canadians who are no doubt saddened to learn, as I am right now," he said. "He was a man with a strong presence, a brilliance in his craft, and truly, truly a great Canadian artist."
U.S. President Joe Biden described Sutherland as a "one-of-a-kind actor who inspired and entertained the world for decades." Director Ron Howard, who worked with Sutherland in the 1991 film *Backdraft*, called him "one of the most intelligent, interesting, and engrossing film actors of all time."
Jane Fonda, who starred with Sutherland in Alan J. Pakula's 1971 thriller *Klute*, where they dated for two years, paid tribute on Instagram. She described Sutherland as a "brilliant actor" with whom she shared "quite a few adventures," including performances for active servicemen during an anti-Vietnam War tour in Hawaii, Japan, and the Philippines. "I am heartbroken," she added.
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