Quick Wiki
- Full Name Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland
- Birth Date Dec 21, 1966
- Age 58 Years, 3 Months
- Birthplace London, England
- Occupation Actor, musician
- Parents Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas
- Mother Shirley Douglas (mother)
- Father Donald Sutherland
Kiefer Sutherland | Biography
Kiefer Sutherland, born on December 21, 1966, in London, is a renowned actor celebrated for his roles in movies and TV series including 24, Flatliners, and Stand by Me. He is the son of iconic actors Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas.
Who is Kiefer Sutherland?
Kiefer Sutherland, born on December 21, 1966, in London, is a prominent actor and musician known for his dynamic performances in both film and television. As the son of Canadian actors Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas, he was destined to follow in their footsteps. His breakthrough came in the 1980s with memorable roles in iconic films like "Stand by Me," "The Lost Boys," and "Young Guns." Sutherland's versatility and talent in tackling diverse characters quickly earned him critical acclaim, establishing him as a leading figure in Hollywood.
Best known for his portrayal of counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer in the groundbreaking series "24," Kiefer Sutherland garnered numerous awards, including Emmy and Golden Globe wins. With "24" becoming a cultural phenomenon, Sutherland's performance drew viewers into the gripping narrative, making it one of the longest-running American espionage dramas in TV history. Beyond his acting career, Sutherland has explored his passion for music, releasing two country albums that showcase his artistic range. Today, he continues to captivate audiences across various platforms, solidifying his legacy in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education
Kiefer Sutherland was born on December 21, 1966, in London, England, to the renowned actors Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas. His upbringing was significantly influenced by his parents’ tumultuous relationship, as they divorced in 1970, just a few years after his birth. Following the divorce, Kiefer and his twin sister, Rachel, moved with their mother to Toronto, Canada. This relocation limited Kiefer’s time with his father, leading him to grow up mainly under his mother's care. It wasn’t until he reached his teenage years that he began to appreciate the extent of his father's fame as an actor.
Growing up in Canada, Kiefer attended Catholic boarding school until he was 15 years old. The structure of his education allowed him to develop a strong foundation in both academics and the arts, where he first discovered his passion for acting. His early exposure to the performing arts would later serve as a springboard for his burgeoning career in Hollywood. During his formative years, Sutherland honed his craft by engaging in school plays and community theater, setting the stage for his eventual emergence as an influential figure in film and television.
Career Beginnings: Breakthrough in the 1980s
Kiefer Sutherland's career in acting commenced early, with a passion ignited by his upbringing in a family of actors. His film debut was in 1983’s "Max Dugan Returns", where he shared the screen with his father, Donald Sutherland. This early exposure to the film industry set the stage for Kiefer’s ascent as a prominent actor. The mid-1980s were pivotal for him, as he starred in a series of successful coming-of-age films, most notably "Stand by Me" (1986) and "The Lost Boys" (1987), both of which showcased his versatility and ability to capture complex characters.
As the 1980s progressed, Kiefer continued to elevate his status in Hollywood with roles in films like "Young Guns" (1988) and "The Bay Boy" (1985), which established him as a leading actor of his generation. His portrayal of characters in these films allowed him to delve into diverse genres ranging from action to drama. By the end of the decade, he had firmly positioned himself in the industry, proving he was more than just Donald Sutherland’s son, but rather a talented actor worthy of recognition in his own right.
Success and Achievements: Iconic Role in 24
Kiefer Sutherland's career reached new heights with his portrayal of Jack Bauer in the groundbreaking television series "24." Premiering in 2001, the show revolutionized the suspense and action genres on television, introducing a real-time format that captivated audiences. Sutherland's ability to embody a complex character faced with relentless, high-stakes challenges garnered him critical acclaim. His performance earned him numerous accolades, including Emmy and Golden Globe awards, establishing him as a leading figure in the television landscape.
"24" not only solidified Sutherland's status as a household name but also showcased his dynamic range as an actor. The intense nature of the role demanded both physical and emotional depth, as Jack Bauer navigated intricate political plots and personal sacrifices. The show's success led to multiple seasons, culminating in several spin-offs and a revival series, "24: Live Another Day," in 2014. Through "24," Sutherland not only demonstrated his acting prowess but also left an indelible mark on television history, influencing future espionage and thriller series.
Music Venture: Transition to Country Music
In recent years, Kiefer Sutherland has successfully ventured into the world of music, showcasing his passion for country music. After establishing a prominent career as an actor, he began to channel his creativity into songwriting and performing, illustrating his diverse talents beyond the silver screen. Sutherland's first album, "Down in a Hole", was released in August 2016 through his Ironworks label, capturing the attention of both fans and critics alike. The album features various sounds typical of country music, reflecting themes of love and life experiences, and it quickly established him as an artist with something valuable to say.
Sutherland continued to build on his musical success with the release of his second album, "Reckless & Me", in April 2019. This album further solidified his presence in the country music scene, showcasing his growth as a songwriter. His songs blend storytelling with heartfelt emotion, resonating with listeners. Sutherland's musical journey highlights his commitment to his craft and desire to explore new creative avenues, demonstrating that he is more than just a talented actor. In combining his love for music with his established acting career, Kiefer Sutherland continues to engage and inspire a diverse audience.
Personal Life: Marriages, Ex-Wives, and Daughter
Kiefer Sutherland has experienced a compelling romantic life, marked by two notable marriages and an engagement. His first marriage was to Camelia Kath in 1987, and the couple welcomed a daughter named Sarah Jude. The marriage lasted until 1990, and despite the separation, Sutherland remained committed to being a father. Interestingly, he was also engaged to actress Julia Roberts, but their relationship did not culminate in marriage, which attracted significant media attention at the time.
Sutherland's second marriage was to Kelly Winn in 1996. This union faced its challenges, leading to their separation in 1999. Although they formally divorced in 2008, their relationship added a chapter to Sutherland's complex personal narrative. In 2017, Kiefer became engaged to Cindy Vela, an actress and model. The couple has remained together, enjoying a quieter relationship compared to his previous high-profile romances. Throughout his personal life, Sutherland has maintained a strong bond with his daughter, navigating both his professional and family commitments with determination.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Financial Success
Kiefer Sutherland has established himself as a leading figure in the entertainment industry, with a net worth estimated to be around $100 million. This financial success stems from his extensive career in film and television, particularly his iconic role as Jack Bauer in the acclaimed series "24." His work on this series alone generated considerable income, as Sutherland was reportedly paid $40,000 to $80,000 per episode during its run, with the amount increasing with his recognition and popularity. Beyond "24," his roles in hit movies and series have contributed significantly to his wealth.
In addition to his acting career, Sutherland has ventured into music, which has also enriched his financial portfolio. He has released two country music albums, "Down in a Hole" and "Reckless & Me," both of which have received positive acclaim and added to his earnings. Sutherland's keen business acumen is evident in his founding of the production company Stillwater Productions, which has allowed him to take control of his projects. Overall, his diversified career demonstrates a strategic approach to sustaining long-term financial success in the competitive entertainment landscape.
