Donald Sutherland, Iconic Actor of "MAS*H" and "The Hunger Games," Dies at 88

Donald Sutherland, the celebrated actor whose career spanned over six decades and left an indelible mark on cinema, has passed away at the age of 88. According to a statement from his agency CAA, Sutherland died in Miami on Thursday following a prolonged illness.

His son, Kiefer Sutherland, also wrote about the news in an Instagram post, saying, "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 added that his father "loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived."

Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada on July 17, 1935, Sutherland's journey into acting began with a degree in engineering from the University of Toronto, where he eventually found his true passion in drama. His towering presence at 6'4" and his intense performances on screen became hallmarks of his versatile career, which encompassed over 200 film and television credits.

Sutherland's breakthrough came with his role in the 1967 war film "The Dirty Dozen," which catapulted him into Hollywood stardom. He followed this success with memorable performances in "M*A*S*H," "Klute," and "Don't Look Now," among many others. His ability to seamlessly transition between genres and characters, from serious dramas to comedies and thrillers, solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

Throughout his career, Sutherland garnered numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award for his role in the HBO movie "Citizen X" and two Golden Globes. His commitment to his craft and his fearless approach to challenging roles earned him respect and admiration from audiences and peers alike.

Beyond his achievements on screen, Sutherland cherished his family life. He was married three times and had five children. 

In recent years, Sutherland continued to captivate audiences with roles in critically acclaimed series such as "Trust" and "The Undoing." His last performances were a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to the craft he loved.

In 2017, Sutherland received an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, a fitting tribute to a career that spanned generations and enriched the cinematic landscape. He leaves behind a legacy of memorable characters and timeless performances in film and television that have left an indelible mark on the industry, earning him a place among the greats. The entertainment world surely mourns his loss.