By D.W.G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
A Storied Career in Film and Television
Canadian actor Donald Sutherland, renowned for his roles in films such as "The Hunger Games" and "Don't Look Now," has passed away at the age of 88 after a long illness. His son, Kiefer Sutherland, expressed his sorrow, highlighting his father's significant impact on the film industry. "With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. 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, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived," he said.
Donald Sutherland's prolific career spanned over fifty years, amassing nearly 200 credits. His roles in "The Dirty Dozen" (1967), "M*A*S*H" (1970), and "Kelly's Heroes" (1970) cemented his status as a versatile actor. Later, he portrayed memorable characters in films like "National Lampoon's Animal House" and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" (1978). Despite never receiving an Oscar nomination, Sutherland was honored with an honorary Academy Award in 2017 for his contributions to cinema.
Tributes and Legacy
The announcement of Sutherland's passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and admirers. Rob Lowe, who worked with him on the miniseries "Salem's Lot," described Sutherland as "one of our greatest actors," praising his charisma and talent. Cary Elwes, co star in "Uprising" (2001), expressed his devastation, while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared his admiration, recalling feeling "deeply, deeply star struck" upon meeting Sutherland. "He was a man with a strong presence, a brilliance in his craft and truly, truly a great Canadian artist," Trudeau added.
US President Joe Biden called Sutherland a "one of a kind actor who inspired and entertained the world for decades." Director Ron Howard, who worked with him on "Backdraft" (1991), praised Sutherland as one of the most intelligent and engrossing film actors. Jane Fonda, who co starred with him in "Klute" (1971) and dated him for two years, remembered him as a "brilliant actor" and a dear friend. Helen Mirren, who appeared with Sutherland in "The Leisure Seeker" (2017), described him as one of the smartest actors she had ever worked with, noting his great intelligence and sensitivity.
A Legacy of Activism
Throughout his career, Sutherland was also known for his political activism. He actively protested against the Vietnam War alongside Jane Fonda and infused his roles with his beliefs, such as his portrayal of President Snow in "The Hunger Games, Mockingjay Part 2." Sutherland hoped that the socio political messages in his films would resonate with young audiences and increase their awareness of the world. The official Hunger Games account commemorated him, stating, "Such was the power and skill of Donald Sutherland’s acting that he created one more indelible character among many others that defined his legendary career."
Sutherland’s reflections on the industry revealed his passion for acting over financial gain. He noted the significant changes in actor's earnings since his early days, when he made £8 a week on stage in London. Despite his long career, he had no intentions of retiring, viewing acting as a lifelong endeavor. "It's a passionate endeavour. Retirement for actors is spelt 'DEATH'," he stated. His memoir, "Made Up, But Still True," is set to be published in November, offering further insights into the life and career of this remarkable actor.