Actor Donald Sutherland Dies at 88

Canadian actor Donald Sutherland, renowned for his roles in films like The Hunger Games and Don't Look Now, has passed away at 88 after a prolonged illness.

His son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, shared: "With a heavy heart, I inform you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has died. I personally believe he was one of the most important actors in the history of film."

"Never daunted by a role, whether 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."

The announcement prompted a wave of support and tributes. Cary Elwes, a co-star in the 2001 television film Uprising, expressed his sorrow over Sutherland's passing.

"Our hearts are breaking for you," he conveyed to Kiefer in an Instagram message. "So grateful to have known and worked with him. Sending our love."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reminisced about feeling "deeply, deeply star-struck" upon first meeting Sutherland.

"My thoughts go out to Kiefer and the entire Sutherland family, as well as all Canadians who are undoubtedly saddened to learn this news, as I am right now," he stated.

"He was a man with a strong presence, a brilliance in his craft, and truly, truly a great Canadian artist," he added.

Ron Howard, who directed Sutherland in the 1991 film Backdraft, hailed him as "one of the most intelligent, interesting, and engrossing film actors of all time."

Born in New Brunswick, Canada, Sutherland began his career as a radio news reporter before moving to London in 1957 to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.