Who is Kiefer Sutherland?
Kiefer Sutherland is a renowned Canadian actor, producer, director, and musician, best known for his portrayal of Jack Bauer in the television series 24. Born into a family of actors, Sutherland has built an impressive career spanning several decades, earning numerous accolades for his work in film and television.
Early Life and Education
Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland was born on December 21, 1966, in London, England. He is the son of legendary Canadian actors Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas. His twin sister, Rachel Sutherland, works behind the scenes in the entertainment industry as a post-production film supervisor.
Sutherland’s maternal grandfather, Tommy Douglas, was a prominent Canadian politician known for establishing universal healthcare in Canada. When he was four years old, his parents divorced, and he moved with his mother to Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He attended several schools, including St. Andrew’s College, Harbord Collegiate Institute, and Malvern Collegiate Institute.
During his teenage years, Sutherland developed an interest in acting and studied at the Regina Mundi Catholic College before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. He later enrolled in acting classes and workshops, refining his craft before making his screen debut.
Family and Personal Life
Family Background
Kiefer Sutherland hails from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. His father, Donald Sutherland, is an acclaimed actor known for films such as MASH*, Ordinary People, and The Hunger Games series. His mother, Shirley Douglas, was an actress and political activist who championed social causes throughout her life.
Kiefer has a daughter, Sarah Sutherland, from his previous relationship. Sarah followed in her father’s footsteps and became an actress, gaining recognition for her role in the HBO series Veep.
Personal Life
Sutherland has been married twice. He was first married to Camelia Kath from 1987 to 1990. The couple had one daughter, Sarah. In the early 1990s, he was engaged to actress Julia Roberts, but they called off the wedding just days before the ceremony. In 1996, he married Kelly Winn, but the marriage ended in divorce in 2004.
Over the years, Kiefer Sutherland has faced personal challenges, including legal issues related to DUI arrests. However, he has remained dedicated to his career and has continued to evolve as an artist, both in acting and music.
Detailed Biography Table
| Full Name | Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 21, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | London, England |
| Parents | Donald Sutherland, Shirley Douglas |
| Siblings | Twin sister Rachel Sutherland |
| Nationality | Canadian, British |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) |
| Occupation | Actor, Producer, Director, Musician |
| Years Active | 1983–present |
| Notable Awards | Emmy, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild Awards |
| Net Worth (2025) | Approximately $100 million |
Career
Early Career and Breakthrough (1983–1990)
Sutherland began his acting career with a minor role in the 1983 film Max Dugan Returns, which also starred his father. His first leading role came in the 1984 Canadian film The Bay Boy, for which he received a Genie Award nomination.
He gained widespread recognition in the mid-to-late 1980s with notable performances in Stand by Me (1986), The Lost Boys (1987), and Young Guns (1988). His role as a vampire gang leader in The Lost Boys became a defining moment in his early career, cementing his place as a Hollywood actor.
Hollywood Stardom (1990s)
During the 1990s, Sutherland starred in a series of high-profile films, including Flatliners (1990), A Few Good Men (1992), The Three Musketeers (1993), and A Time to Kill (1996). He became known for his ability to portray intense and complex characters.
Despite experiencing a career slowdown towards the late 1990s, he continued to take on various film roles and also explored directing. His directorial debut, Truth or Consequences, N.M. (1997), received mixed reviews but showcased his behind-the-camera skills.
24 and Global Fame (2001–2010)
Sutherland’s career reached new heights in 2001 when he was cast as Jack Bauer in the Fox TV series 24. The show’s real-time format and thrilling storytelling made it a massive success. His portrayal of the relentless counterterrorism agent earned him multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Sutherland remained dedicated to 24 until its original run concluded in 2010. He reprised his role in the miniseries 24: Live Another Day (2014), further solidifying his legacy in television history.
Post-24 Career and Music (2011–Present)
After 24, Sutherland continued acting in films and television. He starred in the supernatural drama Touch (2012–2013) and later played President Tom Kirkman in the political drama Designated Survivor (2016–2019).
Apart from acting, Sutherland pursued a music career. In 2016, he released his debut country-rock album Down in a Hole, followed by Reckless & Me (2019) and Bloor Street (2022). His music, characterized by storytelling lyrics, has been well received by fans and critics alike.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @RealKiefer | https://twitter.com/RealKiefer | |
| @kiefersutherland | https://www.instagram.com/kiefersutherland/ | |
| Kiefer Sutherland | https://www.facebook.com/KieferSutherland/ |
Latest News
As of 2025, Kiefer Sutherland has been reflecting on his career and personal journey. In a recent interview, he spoke about his deep appreciation for Europe, his regrets about turning down major film roles, and his passion for music. He continues to tour as a musician while considering new acting opportunities.
Physical Appearance
Kiefer Sutherland stands at 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) tall. He has a rugged and charismatic presence on screen, often portraying intense and determined characters. His distinctive voice and expressive facial features contribute to his strong screen presence.
Net Worth as of 2025
Kiefer Sutherland’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. His wealth comes from his extensive work in film and television, his music career, and various investments. His role in 24 was particularly lucrative, earning him millions per season.
Kiefer Sutherland’s multifaceted career and personal journey reflect his versatility and resilience as an artist. From his early days in Hollywood to his musical pursuits, he continues to engage and inspire audiences worldwide.
FAQs
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What is Kiefer Sutherland’s twin’s name?
- Rachel Sutherland
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How much did Kiefer Sutherland make on 24?
- He reportedly earned around $40 million for seasons 6, 7, and 8, making about $550,000 per episode at his peak.
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What was Donald Sutherland ill with?
- Donald Sutherland’s exact illness has not been widely disclosed, but he passed away on June 20, 2024, after a long illness.
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What is the relationship between Donald and Kiefer Sutherland?
- Donald Sutherland was Kiefer Sutherland’s father.
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