Donald Sutherland, the Canadian actor renowned for his roles in countercultural classics like “The Dirty Dozen,” “MASH,” and “Don’t Look Now,” has passed away at 88, his agency, CAA, confirmed, reported Variety.
Sutherland enjoyed a prolific and diverse career, also known for his performances in films such as “Ordinary People,” “Without Limits” and, for a whole generation of millennials, “The Hunger Games” saga. The cause of death hasn’t been revealed. However, Deadline reports that the actor died “after a long illness” in Miami on Thursday (June 20).
Donald Sutherland, born on July 17, 1935, in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, carved a niche for himself in the world of cinema. His journey in acting began with modest television roles in the 1960s, but it was his breakthrough performance in “The Dirty Dozen” (1967) that catapulted him to fame. Sutherland’s portrayal of the rebellious Vernon Pinkley resonated with audiences, marking the start of his association with countercultural themes in cinema.
Donald Sutherland’s prolific career
Sutherland’s ability to embody complex, often unconventional characters made him a standout figure in 1970s Hollywood. Among his most memorable works we can include Robert Altman’s “MASH” (1970), where he played the irreverent army surgeon Hawkeye Pierce, and Alan J. Pakula’s “Klute” (1971), where he starred opposite Jane Fonda as a private detective.
His performance in Nicolas Roeg’s “Don’t Look Now” (1973) showcased his versatility, playing a grieving father entangled in a web of psychological and supernatural intrigue. This film, in particular, is often cited as one of his best in his early career. Despite his success in these genres, Sutherland did not limit himself, exploring a variety of roles that ranged from comedies to intense dramas, thereby cementing his status as a versatile actor.
Donald Sutherland in ‘Don’t Look Now’ (IMDb)
Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Sutherland continued to build an impressive filmography. He earned critical acclaim for his role in “Ordinary People” (1980), directed by Robert Redford, where he played a father struggling with family tragedy. His performance was widely praised for its depth and sensitivity, contributing to the film’s Academy Award success. Sutherland also ventured into biographical roles, such as in “Without Limits” (1998), where he portrayed Bill Bowerman, the legendary track coach. These roles highlighted his ability to bring real-life figures to the screen with authenticity and nuance.
His contributions to film were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including an honorary Oscar in 2017 for his extraordinary achievements. He also won an Emmy for supporting actor in 1995 for a role in “Citizen X” (HBO). He received a star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011.
Donald Sutherland’s family: Who are his children?
He married three times. His first marriage to Lois Hardwick in 1959 was relatively short-lived. However, it was his second marriage to actress Shirley Douglas, the daughter of Canadian statesman Tommy Douglas, that had a notable impact on his family life. They had twins, Kiefer and Rachel Sutherland, born in 1966. Kiefer became a well-known actor, starring in the television series “24” and numerous films, while Rachel forged a successful career as a film producer.
Donald Sutherlan and wife Francine (Brad Barket/Getty Images)
Donald Sutherland’s third and longest-lasting marriage was to French-Canadian actress Francine Racette, whom he married in 1972. Together, they had three sons: Roeg, Rossif, and Angus Sutherland, all of whom pursued careers in the entertainment industry to varying degrees. Rossif achieved recognition as an actor in films and television, Roeg made his mark in film financing, and Angus worked both as an actor and producer.
The article will be updated with more information.
