Donald Sutherland, the iconic “Hunger Games” star, passed away at the age of 88 on June 20, 2024. Known for his impressive acting career and his enduring marriage to Francine Racette, Sutherland leaves behind a rich legacy. With an estimated net worth of $60 million, his contributions to film and television are indelible. Married for over 50 years, Sutherland’s life was marked by professional achievements and personal joys.
Early Life and Marriages
Donald Sutherland was married three times throughout his life. His first wife, Lois Hardwick, whom he met in college, was a child star of the silent movies. They were married for seven years before parting ways. His second wife, Shirley Douglas, was the daughter of Tommy Douglas, a prominent socialist politician often regarded as the architect of Canada’s welfare state. Together, Sutherland and Douglas had twins, Kiefer and Rachel Sutherland. Their marriage ended, but the bond with his children remained strong.
Love and Heartbreak: Jane Fonda
During his career, Sutherland had a notable romance with Jane Fonda. The two met shortly before making the film “Klute” and embarked on a passionate three-year affair. Their relationship, however, ended dramatically in Tokyo, leaving Sutherland heartbroken. Reflecting on this period, he described the end of their relationship as a deeply painful experience. Despite the heartbreak, Sutherland continued to forge ahead, both in his career and personal life.
A Lasting Love: Francine Racette
In 1972, Sutherland married Francine Racette, a French-Canadian actress. Their marriage spanned over five decades, a rarity in Hollywood. Racette, known for her work in French-language films, was an extraordinary companion. Sutherland often credited her with bringing joy and laughter into his life. He shared with The Guardian that Racette’s ability to make him laugh was a significant factor in their enduring relationship. “Beauty goes and sex goes but my husband makes me laugh every single day,” Sutherland quoted, echoing Joanne Woodward’s sentiment about Paul Newman.
A Storied Career
Donald Sutherland’s career in acting spanned more than five decades. He starred in a diverse array of films, from classics like “MASH” and “Ordinary People” to more recent blockbusters like “The Hunger Games” series. Sutherland was known for his versatility, never shying away from complex and challenging roles. His dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades and a revered place in cinematic history.
Sutherland’s son, Kiefer Sutherland, announced his father’s death on Instagram with a heartfelt tribute. “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,” Kiefer wrote. This sentiment encapsulates the admiration and respect Donald Sutherland garnered throughout his life.
Family and Legacy
Donald Sutherland’s legacy extends beyond his filmography. He leaves behind five children: Kiefer, Rachel, Roeg, Rossif, and Angus. Kiefer and Rachel are Sutherland’s children from his marriage to Shirley Douglas. He named his four sons after directors he worked with, reflecting his deep connection to his profession and the people he met along the way.
Sutherland’s marriage to Racette was not just a partnership but a source of inspiration. He often spoke about her influence on his life, describing her as his muse and his source of truth. In an interview with GQ, he shared, “When people ask me where I live, I say, ‘I live with my wife.’ I don’t know whether I live in Paris, New York, or Miami. I live with my wife. My inspiration, my judgment, it comes from my wife. She has…truth.”
Reflecting on a Remarkable Life
Donald Sutherland’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His contributions to the film industry, his dedication to his craft, and his lasting marriage to Francine Racette are testaments to a life well lived. Sutherland’s story is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment, both on and off the screen.
As fans and colleagues remember him, they celebrate not just an actor but a man who loved deeply, laughed often, and left an indelible mark on the world. Donald Sutherland’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.
