Kiefer Sutherland, Edgar Wright, Helen Mirren Remember Donald Sutherland: “One of the Most Important Actors in the History of Film”

Hollywood stars took to social media on Thursday after it was announced that Donald Sutherland died at the age of 88.

Sutherland died Thursday in Miami after a long illness, CAA’s Missy Davy told The Hollywood Reporter.

The renowned actor had an illustrious six-decade career, starring in varied roles with his breakthrough performances including the 1967 film The Dirty Dozen and Robert Altman’s M*A*S*H. Throughout his career, the actor starred in such films as Klute, Kelly’s Heroes, Don’t Look Now, Ordinary People, 1900, The Hunger Games series and Ad Astra.

In 2017 he received an Honorary Award from the Academy.

Sutherland is survived by his wife Francine Racette; sons Roeg, Rossif, Angus and Kiefer; daughter Rachel; and four grandchildren.

Kiefer paid tribute to his late father online writing, “With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.”

Helen Mirren paid tribute to Sutherland in a statement to THR, “Donald Sutherland was one of the smartest actors I ever worked with. He had a wonderful enquiring brain, and a great knowledge on a wide variety of subjects. He combined this great intelligence with a deep sensitivity, and with a seriousness about his profession as an actor. This all made him into the legend of film that he became. He was my colleague and became my friend. I will miss his presence in this world.”

Ron Howard remembered directing Sutherland in Backdraft: “I was blessed to direct him in #Backdraft. One of the most intelligent, interesting & engrossing film actors of all time. Incredible range, creative courage & dedication to serving the story & the audience with supreme excellence.”

Edgar Wright praised Sutherland’s filmography, describing him as “a favourite actor and always fascinating screen presence.”

Below are more tributes.