Jane Fonda Pays Homage to Hollywood Icon Donald Sutherland
Condolences flood in for the late actor Donald Sutherland, who passed away after a prolonged illness.
The 88-year-old was most recognized for his performances in Ordinary People, The Hunger Games series, and M*A*S*H.
Kiefer Sutherland, his son, sorrowfully confirmed his father’s passing. Academy Award winner Jane Fonda and other luminaries from the silver screen honored the Canadian actor.
Pic: AP
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my father, Donald Sutherland,” said Kiefer.
“I believe him to be one of cinema’s most significant actors.
“Unfazed by any role, be it good, bad, or ugly. He cherished his craft, and one could not ask for more. A life well lived,” shared the son about his father.
Sutherland attending the UK premiere of The Hunger Games
One of Sutherland’s most famous portrayals was the role of detective John Klute, who works to shield Fonda’s character, Bree Daniels, from a murderer.
American actress Fonda posted a monochrome picture of Sutherland from their 1971 success, where she clinched her Oscar for Best Actress, expressing, “I am devastated.”
Memorable Moments in History: Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland
Sutherland and Fonda in 1971. Pic: AP
In the year 1971, Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland were romantically involved and embarked on a nationwide anti-war tour for American soldiers.
Tributes Pouring In for Donald Sutherland
Sutherland and Fonda in 1971. Pic: AP
Renowned figures such as US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have expressed their condolences following the passing of the esteemed actor.
Justin Trudeau hailed him as a “distinguished Canadian artist,” upon receiving the news of his demise, during a press briefing regarding a national educational food initiative.
Describing Sutherland as an exceptional actor who captivated and amused audiences worldwide for generations, Joe Biden paid tribute to the late actor in a social media post.
Tributes Pour in for the Legendary Actor Donald Sutherland
Part of the British acting community, Dame Helen Mirren paid her respects to the late Donald Sutherland. She shared the screen with Sutherland in The Leisure Seeker in 2017, having previously collaborated on the 1990 film Bethune: The Making Of A Hero.
In a heartfelt tribute, Dame Helen stated, “Donald Sutherland was one of the most intelligent actors I ever had the pleasure of working with. He possessed a curious mind and vast knowledge across various subjects.”
She added, “He merged this exceptional intellect with profound sensitivity and a dedicated approach to his craft as an actor. These qualities solidified his status as a cinematic legend.”
Sutherland answers questions from film critic Leonard Maltin in 1998. Pic: Reuters
Many will recognize Sutherland from his role as President Coriolanus Snow in The Hunger Games franchise. The official account for The Hunger Games described him as “the gentlest soul” who convincingly portrayed “the most corrupt, merciless dictator ever depicted.”
Sutherland with his son Kiefer. Pic: Reuters
Remembering a Screen Legend
Donald Sutherland is most notably remembered for his portrayal of the charismatic Captain Benjamin Franklin ‘Hawkeye’ Pierce in the 1970 adaptation of M*A*S*H. His co-star, Elliott Gould, who played Captain ‘Trapper’ John Francis Xavier McIntyre, described Sutherland as an “immense” talent who exuded immense kindness and generosity.
Gould reminisced about their shared experiences as young fathers during their collaboration and expressed deep sorrow over Sutherland’s passing, noting, “Donald was like a brother to me, and a significant influence on my career.”
Actor Rob Lowe, renowned for his performances in The West Wing and various other films, praised Sutherland as “one of the finest actors” and expressed his gratitude for working alongside him in the miniseries Salem’s Lot in 2004.
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Tributes Pour In
Various individuals, including Elijah Wood, renowned for portraying Frodo Baggins, also offered their tributes.
In Loving Memory
Donald Sutherland is survived by his wife Francine Racette, sons Roeg, Rossif, Angus, and Kiefer, daughter Rachel, and four grandchildren.
The family will host a private celebration to honor his life, as per his agency.
