Who is Kiefer Sutherland?
Kiefer Sutherland is a British-born Canadian actor, director, and producer renowned for his versatile roles in film and television. He gained widespread acclaim for portraying Jack Bauer in the television series “24,” a role that earned him an Emmy Award. Beyond acting, Sutherland has ventured into music, releasing albums and touring as a musician. His contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his status as a prominent figure in Hollywood.
Early Life and Education
Kiefer Sutherland was born on December 21, 1966, in London, England. He is the son of renowned Canadian actors Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas. Despite being born in the UK, Kiefer holds Canadian nationality and has always embraced his North American heritage.
After his parents’ separation, Kiefer moved with his mother to Los Angeles and later settled in Toronto, Canada. He attended various schools, including St. Andrew’s College, Harbord Collegiate Institute, and Malvern Collegiate Institute. During his teenage years, he developed a passion for acting, inspired by his parents’ careers.
To pursue acting seriously, Sutherland enrolled in Regina Mundi Catholic College in Ontario before dropping out to focus on his career. His early exposure to the entertainment industry gave him a solid foundation for the success that followed.
Personal Life
Kiefer Sutherland’s personal life has been marked by high-profile relationships, marriages, and challenges. He was engaged to Julia Roberts in 1990, but the relationship ended shortly before their wedding.
He was married twice: first to actress Camelia Kath (1987–1990), with whom he shares a daughter, Sarah Sutherland (also an actress). His second marriage was to Kelly Winn (1996–2004), but they eventually divorced.
Sutherland has also faced some legal troubles, including a DUI arrest in 2007, for which he served 48 days in jail. Despite these challenges, he has remained a dedicated professional, balancing his acting and music careers while maintaining a private lifestyle.
Family
Kiefer Sutherland comes from an influential entertainment family. His father, Donald Sutherland, is a legendary Canadian actor known for films like The Hunger Games, MASH*, and Ordinary People. His mother, Shirley Douglas, was also a talented actress and a passionate political activist.
He has a twin sister, Rachel Sutherland, who works behind the scenes in the film and television industry. Kiefer has often spoken about the impact of his parents on his career and how their acting legacy shaped his artistic aspirations.
Additionally, his daughter, Sarah Sutherland, has followed in his footsteps, making a name for herself in Hollywood, most notably for her role as Catherine Meyer in Veep.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland |
| Date of Birth | December 21, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | London, England |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Parents | Donald Sutherland (father), Shirley Douglas (mother) |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $100 million |
Career
Kiefer Sutherland began his acting career in the 1980s, starring in several iconic films that solidified his reputation as a talented performer.
Breakthrough in Film
His early roles in films like “Stand by Me” (1986), “The Lost Boys” (1987), and “Young Guns” (1988) established him as a promising young actor. Throughout the 1990s, he starred in successful films such as:
- Flatliners (1990)
- A Few Good Men (1992)
- The Three Musketeers (1993)
- Dark City (1998)
Television Stardom with 24
Despite his film success, Kiefer Sutherland became a global icon with his role as Jack Bauer in the hit TV series “24” (2001–2010, 2014, 2017). The show was a cultural phenomenon, and his performance earned him multiple awards, including:
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (2006)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Drama (2002)
The series’ success cemented his place as one of the greatest action stars in television history.
Music Career
Apart from acting, Sutherland is also a musician. He released his debut album, “Down in a Hole” (2016), followed by “Reckless & Me” (2019). He has toured extensively, performing in both the U.S. and Europe.
Recent Projects and Comeback
In recent years, Sutherland has continued to work on both TV and film projects. Some of his notable recent works include:
- “Designated Survivor” (2016–2019) – A political thriller where he played President Tom Kirkman.
- “Rabbit Hole” (2023) – A thriller series where he starred as a private espionage operative.
- Several upcoming film and music projects expected in 2025.
Kiefer Sutherland’s career has spanned over four decades, making him one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. His work in film, television, and music has showcased his versatility and dedication to the arts. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, he has remained a beloved entertainer with a lasting impact on the industry.
Kiefer Sutherland Career Table
| Year | Project | Role | Medium | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1983 | Max Dugan Returns | Bill | Film | Film debut |
| 1986 | Stand by Me | Ace Merrill | Film | Breakthrough role |
| 1987 | The Lost Boys | David | Film | Cult classic horror film |
| 1988 | Young Guns | Josiah “Doc” Scurlock | Film | Western film success |
| 1990 | Flatliners | Nelson Wright | Film | Sci-fi thriller hit |
| 1992 | A Few Good Men | Lt. Jonathan Kendrick | Film | Starred alongside Tom Cruise |
| 1993 | The Three Musketeers | Athos | Film | Adventure film success |
| 1998 | Dark City | Dr. Schreber | Film | Sci-fi cult classic |
| 2001–2010, 2014, 2017 | 24 | Jack Bauer | TV Series | Emmy & Golden Globe-winning role |
| 2011 | Melancholia | John | Film | Critically acclaimed drama |
| 2016–2019 | Designated Survivor | Tom Kirkman | TV Series | Lead role as U.S. President |
| 2016 | Down in a Hole (album) | Singer | Music Album | Debut country music album |
| 2019 | Reckless & Me (album) | Singer | Music Album | Successful second album |
| 2023 | Rabbit Hole | John Weir | TV Series | Thriller series lead role |
| 2025 | Upcoming projects | TBD | Film/Music | Expected new releases |
Latest News
In a recent interview, Sutherland reflected on his upbringing and the influence of his parents, particularly his father, Donald Sutherland. He shared insights into his early life, career choices, and his connection to Canada, highlighting the impact of his family’s legacy on his personal and professional development.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Official Link |
|---|---|
| Kiefer Sutherland on Instagram | |
| Kiefer Sutherland on Twitter | |
| Kiefer Sutherland on Facebook | |
| YouTube | Kiefer Sutherland on YouTube |
Height and Physical Appearance
Kiefer Sutherland stands at 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) tall. He has a distinctive presence, characterized by his sharp features and expressive demeanor, which have contributed to his compelling performances on screen.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Kiefer Sutherland’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his extensive work in film and television, as well as his ventures in music and other entertainment-related projects.
Kiefer Sutherland’s multifaceted career and enduring contributions to the arts continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
FAQS
Are Rachel and Kiefer Sutherland twins?
Yes, Rachel Sutherland and Kiefer Sutherland are fraternal twins, born on December 21, 1966. While Kiefer pursued an acting career, Rachel works behind the scenes in the entertainment industry as a television post-production supervisor.
Who did Julia Roberts leave Kiefer Sutherland for?
Julia Roberts and Kiefer Sutherland were engaged in 1990, but she called off the wedding just days before the ceremony in 1991. It was widely reported that she left Kiefer for Jason Patric, a close friend of his at the time.
What is the relationship between Donald and Kiefer Sutherland?
Kiefer Sutherland is the son of legendary Canadian actor Donald Sutherland. Despite coming from a famous acting family, Kiefer built his own successful career and has often spoken about his deep respect and admiration for his father.
Has Kiefer Sutherland ever been married?
Yes, Kiefer Sutherland has been married twice. He was first married to Camelia Kath (1987–1990), with whom he shares a daughter, Sarah Sutherland. His second marriage was to Kelly Winn (1996–2004), but they eventually divorced.
For more detailed biographies on notable figures, you can explore Alison Raeside, a distinguished legal professional known for her contributions to the judiciary. Additionally, if you’re interested in rising sports talents, check out Cameron Archer, an emerging football star making waves in the English football scene.
