Donald Sutherland, the multi-generational actor who appeared in films such as “M*A*S*H,” “Klute,” “Animal House” and “The Hunger Games,” has passed away. He was 88 years old.
His death was confirmed on social media by his son, Kiefer Sutherland, the famous actor who appeared in 24. and “Designated Survivor.” Sutherland’s talent agency also confirmed his death to CBS News.
“It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father, Donald Sutherland,” Kiefer Sutherland told X. “Personally, I consider him one of the most important actors in the history of cinema. He never flinched from playing the good, the bad or the ugly. He loved his job and he did what he loved. You couldn’t ask for more. A life well-lived.”
Donald Sutherland He first auditioned for the role over 50 years ago, He said Anderson Cooper during an interview for “60 Minutes” in 2017.
He continued: Appeared in over 150 films Despite his work in television and film, and his critically acclaimed performances in films such as Best Picture-winner Normal People, he is arguably one of the greatest actors never to have been nominated for an Oscar.
In 2017, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences presented Sutherland with an Honorary Academy Award at its Governors Awards ceremony.
One of Canada’s best-known actors, Sutherland was born in New Brunswick in 1935. After earning degrees in engineering and drama from the University of Toronto, he moved to London to launch his acting career.
According to his official Oscar-winning biography, Sutherland had minor roles in Italian and British films before making his feature film debut in 1964’s “Castle of the Living Dead.” His breakout role came as Vernon Pinkley in 1967’s “The Dirty Dozen,” and his first starring role was in the hit film “MASH.”
He’s given many notable performances over the years, both in dramatic roles, like his memorable turn in Oliver Stone’s JFK, and in comedic films like The Con Artist.
He won an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1995 for his performance in HBO’s Citizen X, and was nominated for a Golden Globe nine times during his long career, winning twice.
“Character roles are more challenging,” Sutherland told The Washington Post in a 1970 interview. “They have longevity. A good character actor can be different in every movie and keep the audience interested.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.