There’s a profound sense of loss that comes with saying goodbye to someone who meant the world to you. For Kiefer Sutherland, that reality hit home on June 20 when his legendary father, Donald Sutherland, passed away at the age of 88 in Miami after battling a long illness. The actor, known for his iconic roles in 24 and beyond, has been deeply affected by this loss, but he’s determined to honor his father’s legacy and keep his family strong during this tough time.

At 57, Kiefer, an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning star, is channeling his emotions into preserving his father’s memory. He’s not just mourning the loss of a father but also celebrating the life of a man who made an indelible mark on the world of film and beyond. An insider close to the family tells Closer that Kiefer is committed to ensuring Donald’s legacy lives on while keeping his family united. “This isn’t just about remembering him,” the source says. “It’s about making sure his kids and grandchildren feel the love and guidance he always gave them.”

“Kiefer is heartbroken,” the source shares. “He was incredibly close to his dad and adored him. This loss is hitting him hard, even though he knew it was coming. Saying goodbye is never easy, especially to someone who meant so much.”

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Just last month, Kiefer took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a touching tribute to his father. He posted a black-and-white photo of himself with Donald, captioning it with heartfelt words: “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 continued, “He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.” These words reveal not just Kiefer’s admiration for his father’s career but also his deep respect for the way Donald lived his life. It’s clear that Donald’s influence extends far beyond the screen.

Kiefer Sutherland embraces his father, actor Donald Sutherland — Vince Bucci/Getty Images

Planning a Tribute to an Iconic Life

Now, Kiefer, along with his twin sister Rachel, is stepping up to organize a fitting tribute to Donald’s life. The source tells Closer, “Kiefer and Rachel are taking charge to ensure their father’s legacy is celebrated in a way that truly reflects who he was. They’re planning something special that honors his contributions to both the film industry and his family.”

Donald Sutherland’s career spanned decades, with memorable roles in classics like The Hunger Games, The Dirty Dozen, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Ordinary People, M*A*S*H, Don’t Look Now, Klute, and Animal House. But beyond his impressive filmography, he was a devoted family man. He shared son Kiefer and daughter Rachel with his first wife, Shirley Douglas, and sons Roeg, Rossif, and Angus with his second wife, Francine Racette, whom he remained married to until his passing.

A Family Coming Together in Grief

“Donald was such a significant figure in all his children’s lives,” says a source close to the Sutherland family. “When he fell ill, they rallied around him, offering support and love. Now, as they navigate this difficult time, they’re leaning on each other. Kiefer is determined to make his dad proud and ensure everyone finds strength through this loss.”

Even President Joe Biden paid tribute to Donald, writing on X, “Donald Sutherland was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and one-of-a-kind actor who inspired and entertained the world for decades. My thoughts are with his family and all those who loved him.”

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According to Closer’s source, Kiefer is incredibly proud to be the son of such a legendary figure. “He’s focused on celebrating the incredible life his dad lived,” the source adds. “Donald’s influence extended far beyond the screen, and Kiefer is committed to keeping that spirit alive.”

Donald’s Influence on Kiefer’s Career

In 2022, Kiefer spoke to The Guardian about how his father’s career shaped his own aspirations. “It’s hard to think of another actor who’s been as prolific and made films as diverse as Ordinary People, Don’t Look Now, Fellini’s Casanova, Bertolucci’s 1900, and The Hunger Games,” he said. “His influence was to make my career as diversified and interesting as possible. He taught me by doing, not by saying, and that was really cool.”