Kiefer Sutherland is a well-known and highly influential actor in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, Sutherland has captivated audiences with his remarkable talent and versatility. From his breakout role in the iconic film ‘Stand by Me’ to his unforgettable portrayal of Jack Bauer in the television series ’24,’ Sutherland has left an indelible mark on pop culture.
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Kiefer Sutherland and explore 49 intriguing facts about his life and career. From his family lineage and early beginnings in the industry to his awards and accomplishments, we will uncover interesting details that showcase the depth of his talent and provide a glimpse into his personal life.
If you’re a fan of Kiefer Sutherland or simply curious about the man behind the iconic characters he has portrayed, join us as we dive into these facts and gain a deeper appreciation for this talented actor.
Key Takeaways:
- Kiefer Sutherland, known for his role as Jack Bauer in “24,” is not only a talented actor but also a passionate musician and a dedicated charity supporter.
- From his early acting debut at 17 to his Emmy Award-winning role in “24,” Kiefer Sutherland has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his diverse talents and memorable performances.
Early Beginnings
Kiefer Sutherland was born on December 21, 1966, in London, England. His parents, Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas, were both esteemed actors.
Dual Citizenship
Although born in England, Kiefer Sutherland also holds Canadian citizenship due to his parents’ nationality.
Family Ties
Kiefer comes from a talented family of actors. In addition to his parents, his maternal grandfather, Tommy Douglas, was a prominent Canadian politician and his twin sister, Rachel Sutherland, is also an actress.
Acting Debut
Kiefer made his acting debut at the age of 17 in the 1983 film Max Dugan Returns, alongside his father.
Breakthrough Role
One of Kiefer’s most iconic roles came in 1986 when he portrayed the rebellious country boy, Ace Merrill, in the film adaptation of Stephen King’s Stand by Me.
Jack Bauer in “24”
Kiefer gained widespread recognition for his role as Jack Bauer in the television series 24, which aired from 2001 to His intense portrayal of the counter-terrorism agent garnered critical acclaim.
Emmy Award Winner
For his role in 24, Kiefer won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2006.
A Musically Inclined Actor
In addition to acting, Kiefer is also a talented musician. He released his debut country music album, Down in a Hole, in 2016.
Voice Acting in Video Games
Kiefer lent his voice to the character of Snake in the popular video game series Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain in 2015.
Kiefer’s Role in “Young Guns”
Kiefer played the notorious gunslinger, Doc Scurlock, in the 1988 Western film Young Guns.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 2008, Kiefer was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
A Talented Director
Besides acting, Kiefer has also proven his skills behind the camera. He directed several episodes of the television series 24.
Connection to “Flatliners”
Kiefer starred alongside Julia Roberts and Kevin Bacon in the 1990 psychological horror film Flatliners, which he later reprised in the 2017 sequel.
Kiefer’s Role in “A Few Good Men”
Kiefer portrayed Lieutenant Jonathan Kendrick in the 1992 legal drama film A Few Good Men, sharing the screen with Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson.
Kiefer’s Height
Kiefer stands at a height of 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters).
Collaboration with Joel Schumacher
Kiefer worked with director Joel Schumacher on two films: The Lost Boys (1987) and Phone Booth (2002).
Role in “Melancholia”
Kiefer played the character John, the wedding planner, in the 2011 Lars von Trier film Melancholia.
Kiefer’s Interest in Rodeo
Outside of his career in the entertainment industry, Kiefer has a passion for rodeo and even participated in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association circuit.
Kiefer’s Role in “Dark City”
In the 1998 science fiction film Dark City, Kiefer starred as Dr. Daniel P. Schreber, a pivotal character in the surreal dystopian world.
Canadian Screen Award
In 2016, Kiefer received a Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for the film Forsaken.
Kiefer’s Role in “The Lost Boys”
Kiefer played the charismatic vampire, David, in the cult classic film The Lost Boys (1987), which became a defining role for him early in his career.
Collaboration with Julia Roberts
Kiefer shared the screen with Julia Roberts in the films Flatliners (1990), Love Streams (1984), and Article 99 (1992).
Kiefer’s Role in “Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me”
Kiefer had a cameo appearance as samurai Jean Renault in the 1992 film Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, based on the television series Twin Peaks.
Voice of General W.R. Monger
Kiefer provided the voice for General Warren R. Monger in the animated film Monsters vs. Aliens (2009).
Dedication to Charity Work
Kiefer is actively involved in various charitable causes, including Amnesty International, Artists for Peace and Justice, and the AIDS Foundation.
Role as Young Snake Plissken
Kiefer played the younger version of the character Snake Plissken, originally portrayed by Kurt Russell, in the 1996 film Escape from L.A..
Collaboration with Robert Downey Jr.
Kiefer and Robert Downey Jr. shared the screen in the 1988 film 1969, exploring the impact of the Vietnam War on their characters.
Kiefer’s Role in “The Three Musketeers”
Kiefer played the role of Athos in the 1993 film adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel The Three Musketeers.
Kiefer as David in “The Sentinel”
In the 2006 thriller film The Sentinel, Kiefer portrayed Secret Service Agent David Breckinridge alongside Michael Douglas and Eva Longoria.
Kiefer’s Role in “Mirrors”
Kiefer starred as Ben Carson, a former NYPD detective, in the supernatural horror film Mirrors (2008).
Collaboration with Charlie Sheen
Kiefer and Charlie Sheen appeared together in the 1987 film Three for the Road, showcasing their on-screen chemistry.
Kiefer’s Role in “Eye for an Eye”
Kiefer played the character Robert Doob in the 1996 crime thriller film Eye for an Eye, alongside Sally Field.
Role in “The Reluctant Fundamentalist”
In the 2012 political thriller The Reluctant Fundamentalist, Kiefer portrayed CIA operative Jim Cross.
Kiefer on Broadway
Kiefer made his Broadway debut in the 2011 revival of Jason Miller’s play That Championship Season.
Collaboration with Michael Douglas
Kiefer and Michael Douglas worked together on the 2006 film The Sentinel, where they played members of the Secret Service.
Kiefer’s Role in “The Cowboy Way”
Kiefer starred alongside Woody Harrelson in the 1994 action comedy film The Cowboy Way, playing the character of Sonny Gilstrap.
Kiefer’s Affinity for Westerns
Kiefer has often been associated with Western films, appearing in movies like Young Guns, The Cowboy Way, and Forsaken.
Collaboration with Winona Ryder
Kiefer and Winona Ryder appeared together in the 1990 film Flatliners, where their characters explored the boundaries between life and death.
Kiefer’s Role in “Pompeii”
Kiefer portrayed Roman senator Corvus in the 2014 historical disaster film Pompeii, set against the backdrop of the Mount Vesuvius eruption.
Kiefer’s Interest in Boxing
Kiefer is an avid boxing fan and has been seen attending several high-profile boxing matches over the years.
Collaboration with Demi Moore
Kiefer and Demi Moore shared the screen in the 1988 film The Seventh Sign, a supernatural thriller exploring biblical prophecies.
Kiefer’s Role in “Renegades”
In the 2017 action thriller film Renegades, Kiefer played Navy SEAL Lieutenant Bill Harken, leading a group of elite divers on a treasure hunt.
Kiefer as a Rock Climber
Kiefer enjoys rock climbing as a hobby and has been known to scale cliffs in his free time.
Collaboration with Tommy Lee Jones
Kiefer and Tommy Lee Jones starred together in the 1993 film Oliver Stone’s Heaven & Earth, a biographical war drama.
Kiefer’s Role in “The Vanishing”
Kiefer played the character Jeff Harriman in the 1993 psychological thriller film The Vanishing, which explores the mysterious disappearance of his girlfriend.
Kiefer’s Musical Influences
Kiefer has cited Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and Willie Nelson as some of his musical inspirations.
Collaboration with Paul McCartney
Kiefer worked with Paul McCartney in the 1992 music video for the song Say Say Say, a collaboration between McCartney and Michael Jackson.
Kiefer’s Role in “Dark City”
Kiefer starred as Dr. Daniel P. Schreber in the 1998 science fiction film Dark City, exploring themes of memory and identity in a futuristic setting.
Kiefer’s Role in “Flatliners” (2017)
Kiefer reprised his character Nelson Wright from the original Flatliners (1990) in the 2017 remake, making a memorable appearance that tied the two films together.
Those were 49 fascinating facts about Kiefer Sutherland, an accomplished actor, musician, and all-around entertainer. From his iconic role as Jack Bauer in “24” to his passion for rodeo, Kiefer has left a lasting impact on the world of film and television. His talent and dedication to his craft have earned him a well-deserved place in the hearts of his fans. So, the next time you watch one of his movies or listen to his music, remember these interesting tidbits about the man behind the talent!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kiefer Sutherland is undeniably a fascinating and talented actor who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. From his breakout role as Jack Bauer in “24” to his memorable performances in films like “A Few Good Men” and “Stand By Me,” Sutherland has showcased his versatility and skill as an actor.Aside from his acting career, Sutherland is also known for his musical talents, as he has released several albums over the years. His deep and raspy voice adds a unique element to his music, captivating audiences in a completely different way.Furthermore, Sutherland’s personal life and his family’s rich Hollywood lineage only adds to his allure. With a father like Donald Sutherland, who is also a highly respected actor, it’s no surprise that Kiefer has inherited the acting gene.Overall, Kiefer Sutherland’s career has been filled with intriguing roles, memorable performances, and a talent that continues to captivate audiences around the world. He is truly a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.
FAQs
1. What is Kiefer Sutherland’s most famous role?
One of Kiefer Sutherland’s most iconic roles is that of Jack Bauer in the television series “24.” The character of Jack Bauer is a counter-terrorism agent who is known for his intense portrayal and unyielding dedication to protecting the United States.
2. Has Kiefer Sutherland won any awards?
Yes, Kiefer Sutherland has received numerous awards throughout his career. He has won a Golden Globe, an Emmy, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his performance in “24.” Additionally, he has been recognized for his contributions to film and television by various other organizations.
3. Is Kiefer Sutherland involved in any other aspects of the entertainment industry?
Aside from acting, Kiefer Sutherland is also a talented musician. He has released several albums and has showcased his musical talents through live performances. He is known for his gritty and soulful voice, which adds a unique touch to his music.
4. Does Kiefer Sutherland come from a family of actors?
Yes, Kiefer Sutherland comes from a family with a rich Hollywood lineage. His father is the renowned actor Donald Sutherland, and his mother is actress Shirley Douglas. Both of his parents have had successful careers in the entertainment industry.
5. What are some other notable films or TV shows Kiefer Sutherland has been in?
Aside from “24,” Kiefer Sutherland has appeared in a variety of other notable films and TV shows. Some of his memorable roles include David in “A Few Good Men,” Ace Merrill in “Stand By Me,” and Tom Kirkman in the TV series “Designated Survivor.
Kiefer Sutherland's captivating career spans decades, from his iconic role in the vampire classic "The Lost Boys" to his powerful performance in Lars von Trier's apocalyptic drama "Melancholia." His talent runs in the family, as evidenced by his brother Rossif Sutherland's extraordinary acting chops. Delve deeper into Kiefer's filmography and explore more about his talented sibling by checking out our other fascinating fact-filled articles.
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