Hollywood Mourns Donald Sutherland: Ron Howard, Elijah Wood, Edgar Wright And More Pay Tribute

In the wake of Donald Sutherland‘s tragic death on Thursday (June 20) following a long illness, tributes are flooding in for the late actor, who was 88.

His son and fellow actor Kiefer Sutherland broke the news on X, referring to his father as “one of the most important actors in the history of film.”

“Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly,” he continued. “He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.”

Ron Howard, who wrote on X that he was “blessed to direct” Sutherland in the 1991 action thriller Backdraft, praised the late actor as “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,” he added.

Director Edgar Wright called Sutherland a “favourite actor” of his, citing two of his “very favourite and influential films” as Don’t Look Now (1973) and Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978). Wright proceeded to shout out several of Sutherland’s other credits, before ultimately concluding, “So sorry to see you go Donald, but what a legacy you leave behind.”

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… pic.twitter.com/3EdJB03KKT

— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) June 20, 2024

Actor Elijah Wood wrote on X, “aww man. farewell, Donald Sutherland.” Meanwhile, Michael McKean penned, “RIP Donald Sutherland. Truly one of a kind, with a unique voice and presence. Phenomenal range.”

Rob Lowe, who appeared alongside Sutherland in the two-part miniseries remake of Salem’s Lot, deemed it an “honor to work with [Sutherland] many years ago,” noting that he “will never forget his charisma and ability.”

“If you want a master class in acting, watch him in Ordinary People,” he added. My condolences to Kiefer.”

Piers Morgan honored Sutherland on X, as well, writing, “One of my all-time favourite actors who played so many great roles. What a sad loss.”

Letterboxd and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) each posted in honor of Sutherland, as well.