Kiefer Sutherland Bio, Age, Height, Wife, Family, Affairs, Career, Net Worth & More

Kiefer Sutherland stands as one of the most recognizable faces in television history, forever etched in pop culture as the relentless Jack Bauer from the groundbreaking series “24.” Born into Canadian acting royalty, this London-born, Toronto-raised performer has built an extraordinary career spanning four decades, seamlessly transitioning from 1980s teen heartthrob to Emmy-winning dramatic powerhouse. With his distinctive voice, intense screen presence, and remarkable versatility, Sutherland continues to captivate audiences worldwide while expanding his creative horizons into music and production.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Kiefer William Frederick Dempsey George Rufus Sutherland was born on December 21, 1966, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, London, to two of Canada’s most celebrated actors – Donald Sutherland and Shirley Douglas. His distinctive full name honors various family friends and cultural figures, including director Warren Kiefer who gave his father his first film role. Born alongside twin sister Rachel, Kiefer entered the world already connected to entertainment royalty.

His early years were marked by the glamorous yet unstable life of Hollywood children. The family lived in Los Angeles until 1970 when his parents divorced, prompting mother Shirley to move young Kiefer and Rachel to Toronto, Canada. This geographical separation meant limited time with his famous father, creating a complex relationship that would later influence both his personal life and acting career.

Education proved challenging for the restless young Sutherland. He attended numerous schools across Toronto, including Crescent Town Elementary School, St. Clair Junior High, John G. Althouse Middle School, and multiple high schools such as St. Andrew’s College, Martingrove Collegiate Institute, and Malvern Collegiate Institute. This educational instability reflected his growing desire to pursue acting full-time.

At age 15, making a decision that would define his future, Sutherland left traditional schooling to focus entirely on acting. He began taking weekend acting lessons at Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School while auditioning for roles. This early commitment to his craft demonstrated the determination that would later characterize his intense performances.

Career Journey

The Rising Star (1983-1989)

Kiefer Sutherland’s professional debut came at 16 with a small role in “Max Dugan Returns” (1983), appropriately starring his father Donald. This early exposure to major film production provided invaluable experience, but it was his performance in “The Bay Boy” (1984) that first garnered critical attention. Playing a sensitive teenager in 1930s Nova Scotia, he demonstrated emotional depth beyond his years.

The mid-1980s saw Sutherland explode onto the Hollywood scene with a string of iconic roles that defined a generation. “Stand by Me” (1986) cast him as the menacing Ace Merrill, showcasing his ability to portray dangerous characters with psychological complexity. The same year’s “At Close Range” further established his reputation for intense, brooding performances.

However, it was “The Lost Boys” (1987) that cemented his status as a cultural icon. As David, the charismatic vampire gang leader, Sutherland created one of horror cinema’s most memorable villains. The film’s success transformed him into a teen heartthrob while demonstrating his comfort with genre material and physical performance demands.

“Young Guns” (1988) rounded out this breakthrough period, casting Sutherland alongside Emilio Estevez and Charlie Sheen in a revisionist Western. As Doc Scurlock, he balanced action sequences with character development, proving his versatility within ensemble casts. The film’s success led to a sequel and established Sutherland as a reliable leading man.

The Leading Man Era (1990-2000)

The 1990s opened with “Flatliners” (1990), a psychological thriller that became a defining film of the decade. Starring alongside julia roberts, Kevin Bacon, and William Baldwin, Sutherland played Nelson Wright, a medical student experimenting with near-death experiences. The role required emotional vulnerability and intellectual intensity, expanding his range beyond villainous or action-oriented parts.

His collaboration with Roberts extended beyond the film set – their highly publicized engagement in 1990 made them Hollywood’s golden couple. However, the relationship ended abruptly three days before their planned wedding, generating intense media scrutiny that Sutherland handled with characteristic privacy.

“A Few Good Men” (1992) provided one of his most memorable supporting roles as Jonathan Kendrick, the zealous Marine lieutenant. Sharing scenes with Jack Nicholson and tom cruise, Sutherland held his own in Aaron Sorkin’s sharp dialogue, delivering the famous line about the “code red” with conviction that made audiences believe in his character’s moral certainty.

Throughout the 1990s, Sutherland balanced studio films with independent projects, demonstrating artistic ambition alongside commercial viability. “The Three Musketeers” (1993) showcased his swashbuckling abilities, while “Eye for an Eye” (1996) explored darker themes of revenge and justice.

The Television Revolution: 24 Era (2001-2010)

The role that would redefine both Sutherland’s career and television drama arrived with “24” in 2001. Cast as Jack Bauer, a counter-terrorism agent racing against time to prevent disasters, he inherited a character that would become synonymous with post-9/11 American anxieties and heroism.

The show’s real-time format presented unique acting challenges – maintaining intensity across 24 episodes while showing character deterioration under extreme pressure. Sutherland’s portrayal of Bauer evolved from confident agent to morally compromised operative willing to sacrifice personal ethics for national security. His performance captured America’s conflicted relationship with power, security, and civil liberties.

Critical recognition arrived with the first season’s conclusion. Sutherland won the 2002 Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Drama, establishing “24” as a cultural phenomenon. The Emmy Awards followed in 2006, with Sutherland receiving Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his work in Season 5, widely considered the show’s creative peak.

The series’ impact extended beyond entertainment into political discourse. Bauer’s frequent use of torture as an interrogation technique sparked debates about government overreach and civil rights. Sutherland defended the show’s complexity, arguing it reflected difficult realities rather than endorsing specific tactics.

Between seasons, Sutherland pursued film projects that complemented his television work. “Phone Booth” (2002) demonstrated his ability to create tension through voice performance alone, while “The Sentinel” (2006) allowed him to explore similar themes of national security and personal sacrifice.

Expanding Horizons (2011-2020)

Following “24’s” conclusion, Sutherland explored new creative territories. “Touch” (2012-2013) showcased his paternal side as a father discovering his autistic son’s supernatural abilities. The role required emotional subtlety and vulnerability, contrasting sharply with Jack Bauer’s hardened determination.

His music career, long a personal passion, became increasingly prominent. Forming the Kiefer Sutherland Band, he released “Down in a Hole” (2016), a country-rock album featuring original songs that revealed his storytelling abilities extended beyond acting. Extensive touring followed, with Sutherland performing at venues across North America and Europe.

“Designated Survivor” (2016-2019) marked his return to political television, playing Tom Kirkman, a cabinet member who becomes president after a terrorist attack. The role explored idealistic leadership versus pragmatic governance, offering a counterpoint to Jack Bauer’s ruthless efficiency.

Recent Renaissance (2021-2026)

Sutherland’s recent work demonstrates continued artistic evolution. “The Contractor” (2022) returned him to action-thriller territory but with age-appropriate gravitas, playing a supporting role that emphasized mentorship over physical dominance.

His music career gained momentum with “Reckless & Me” (2019) and extensive touring through 2025. Live performances revealed a different side of Sutherland – storytelling between songs, connecting with audiences through shared experiences of love, loss, and redemption.

The 2024 passing of his father, Donald Sutherland, prompted reflection on legacy and artistic inheritance. His tribute calling Donald “one of the most important actors in the history of film” highlighted their complex relationship and mutual respect built over decades of parallel careers.

Career Stats

Filmography Highlights

• Feature Films: 70+ movies
• Television Series: 15+ series as lead or major roles
• Video Games: Metal Gear Solid V series (voice and motion capture)
• Music Albums: 2 studio albums, 1 live album
• Directing Credits: 10+ episodes across various series
• Producing Credits: 20+ projects through Stillwater Productions

Box Office Success

• Highest Grossing Film: “A Few Good Men” ($243 million worldwide)
• Franchise Success: “Young Guns” series ($100+ million combined)
• Television Impact: “24” averaged 12-15 million viewers per episode during peak seasons

Awards Recognition

• Primetime Emmy Awards: 1 win, 5 nominations
• Golden Globe Awards: 1 win, 6 nominations
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: 1 win, 4 nominations
• Saturn Awards: 2 wins, 4 nominations

Personal Life

Family and Relationships

Kiefer Sutherland’s personal life reflects the complexity of growing up in Hollywood’s spotlight while maintaining genuine connections. His relationship with fiancée Cindy Vela, a model and actress, has provided stability since their meeting in 2014. Their engagement in 2017 marked a mature approach to commitment, taking time to build a foundation away from media scrutiny.

His role as father to daughter Sarah (born 1988) from his first marriage to Camelia Kath represents his most important relationship. Sarah, following family tradition, became an actress known for her role in “Veep.” Their close relationship demonstrates Sutherland’s commitment to fatherhood despite career demands.

The twin bond with sister Rachel remains central to his life. Working behind the camera as a post-production supervisor, Rachel provides industry perspective and personal support. Their shared childhood experiences created an unbreakable connection that continues into adulthood.

Loss and Legacy

The recent passing of both parents – mother Shirley Douglas in 2020 and father Donald Sutherland in 2024 – prompted profound reflection on family legacy. These losses, while devastating, strengthened his appreciation for artistic inheritance and the responsibility of carrying forward the Sutherland name in entertainment.

His tribute to his father revealed deep respect: “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.”

Hobbies and Interests

Music occupies significant personal time, with songwriting serving as emotional expression beyond acting. His guitar collection includes vintage instruments reflecting serious commitment to musical craft. Ranch life provides balance to Hollywood demands, with properties in Montana and California offering space for horseback riding and agricultural pursuits.

An avid reader, Sutherland’s literary interests range from classic American authors to contemporary Canadian novelists, often influencing his creative choices. His collection of first editions reflects intellectual curiosity developed through years of script analysis.

Awards & Achievements

Primetime Emmy Awards

• 2006: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series – “24” (WIN)
• 2002-2010: 5 additional nominations for “24”

Golden Globe Awards

• 2002: Best Actor – Television Series Drama – “24” (WIN)
• 2001-2007: 6 nominations total for “24” and “Designated Survivor”

Screen Actors Guild Awards

• 2005-2007: 3 consecutive wins for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series – “24”
• 2004-2010: 4 total nominations

Other Major Honors

• Canadian Walk of Fame: Inducted 2005
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Star received 2008
• Zurich Film Festival: Lifetime Achievement Award 2015
• Saturn Awards: 2 wins for Best Television Actor
• MTV Movie Awards: 2 nominations for “A Few Good Men”

Physical Statistics

Quotes

On Acting Philosophy:
“I’ve always believed that the character is more important than the actor. If people remember me instead of the character, then I haven’t done my job properly.”

On Fatherhood:
“Having a daughter changed everything. Suddenly, every decision you make isn’t just about you anymore. It’s about creating something she can be proud of.”

On Legacy:
“My father taught me that acting isn’t about being famous – it’s about telling stories that matter. If you can make people feel something, you’ve done your job.”

Controversies

DUI Arrests and Legal Issues

Sutherland’s struggles with alcohol resulted in multiple DUI arrests, most notably in 2007 when he was sentenced to 48 days in jail while on probation from a previous offense. The incident occurred during “24’s” production hiatus, and he served the sentence without complaint, later acknowledging the importance of taking responsibility for mistakes.

Julia Roberts Broken Engagement

The highly publicized end of his engagement to Julia Roberts in 1991 generated intense media scrutiny. Called off just days before their planned wedding, the breakup occurred amid rumors of infidelity and Roberts’ rising superstardom. Sutherland maintained dignified silence, refusing to engage in public mudslinging.

On-Set Altercations

Throughout his career, reports of Sutherland’s intense working style occasionally led to conflicts with co-stars. Most notably, tensions with “24” co-star Freddie Prinze Jr. were made public, with Prinze criticizing Sutherland’s professionalism. These incidents reflect the pressure-cooker environment of television production and Sutherland’s demanding approach to his craft.

Favorites

Salary & Net Worth

Current Net Worth (2026)

Estimated Net Worth: $100 million

Income Breakdown

• Television Salaries: $250,000-400,000 per episode for recent series
• Film Fees: $2-5 million per major studio film
• Music Revenue: Touring and album sales contribute $1-2 million annually
• Producing: Backend deals through Stillwater Productions
• Real Estate: Properties in Los Angeles, Montana, and Canada

Career Earnings Highlights

• “24” Peak Salary: $550,000 per episode (approximately $13 million per season)
• “Designated Survivor”: $200,000 per episode
• Film Backend Deals: Percentage participation on successful projects
• Music Touring: $50,000-100,000 per concert appearance

Asset Portfolio

• Real Estate Holdings: $25-30 million estimated value
• Music Catalog: Original compositions and publishing rights
• Production Company: Stillwater Productions ongoing value
• Classic Vehicle Collection: Vintage trucks and motorcycles

Interesting Facts

1. Royal Connection: Born in London’s Paddington district, the same area that inspired Paddington Bear.
2. Twin Bond: Shares an unusually close relationship with twin sister Rachel, often finishing each other’s sentences.
3. Early Start: Made his stage debut at age 9 in a World War II play called “Throne of Straw.”
4. Roommate Days: Shared an apartment with robert downey Jr. for three years when both were starting in Hollywood.
5. Voice Work: Provided voice and motion capture for the acclaimed “Metal Gear Solid V” video game series.
6. Ranch Life: Owns a working ranch in Montana where he raises horses and practices sustainable agriculture.
7. Musical Instrument: His debut album “Down in a Hole” was recorded using vintage instruments from his personal collection.
8. Famous Neighbor: Grew up down the street from musician Neil Young in Toronto.
9. Method Approach: Stayed in character as Jack Bauer throughout “24” filming, even during breaks.
10. Canadian Pride: Maintains dual citizenship and frequently works on Canadian film and television projects.

Social Media Links

Official Accounts:

• Instagram: @kiefersutherland (Verified)
• Twitter/X: @RealKiefer (Verified)
• Facebook: Kiefer Sutherland (Official)
• Music: Kiefer Sutherland on Spotify
• Production: Stillwater Productions

Note: Sutherland maintains active social media presence, particularly promoting his music career and connecting with fans about touring dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How old is Kiefer Sutherland in 2026?
A: Kiefer Sutherland is 59 years old years old as of January 2026.

Q: Is Kiefer Sutherland married?
A: Kiefer Sutherland has been engaged to Cindy Vela since 2017 but they have not officially married. He was previously married to Camelia Kath (1987-1990) and Kelly Winn (1996-2008).

Q: What is Kiefer Sutherland’s most famous role?
A: Kiefer Sutherland is most famous for playing Jack Bauer in the television series “24,” for which he won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe.

Q: Does Kiefer Sutherland have children?
A: Yes, Kiefer Sutherland has one daughter, Sarah Sutherland (born 1988), from his first marriage to Camelia Kath. Sarah is also an actress known for her role in “Veep.”

Q: Is Kiefer Sutherland still making music?
A: Yes, Kiefer Sutherland continues to pursue his music career alongside acting. He has released two country-rock albums and regularly tours, with his most recent touring activity in 2025.

Q: What happened to Kiefer Sutherland’s parents?
A: Both of Kiefer Sutherland’s parents have passed away – his mother Shirley Douglas died in 2020, and his father Donald Sutherland died in June 2024 at age 88.

Conclusion

Kiefer Sutherland’s remarkable four-decade career stands as testament to his versatility, dedication, and artistic evolution. From his explosive entrance into 1980s cinema through his revolutionary television work and current musical pursuits, he has consistently challenged himself while maintaining the intensity that defines his performances. At 59 years old years old, Sutherland continues to balance acting with music, family with fame, and legacy with innovation.

His influence extends beyond entertainment into cultural commentary, whether through Jack Bauer’s exploration of post-9/11 America or his music’s honest examination of personal struggles. As he enters this mature phase of his career, Sutherland remains committed to authentic storytelling while embracing new creative challenges.

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